Endometrial Ablation

Endometrial ablation is a surgical procedure used to eliminate the endometrial lining of the uterus. Its purpose is to induce cessation of menstrual flow. The success rate for total stoppage of the monthly periods is 60%. The menstrual flow is significantly decreased for 30% of patients. This procedure fails in 5-10% of patients. It does not, however, affect menstrual cramps. It often will eliminate the need for a hysterectomy.

Who is a candidate for endometrial ablation?

• Women with prolonged, excessive menstrual flow who are incapacitated or severely restricted in their activities each month
• Women who have undergone D & C procedures without response
• Women who have been treated with various hormonal regiments without response
• Women who do not desire further pregnancies. (However, this procedure does NOT guarantee future sterility. You would still need to use an effective contraceptive method, such as condoms or birth control pills).

What are the advantages of endometrial ablation?

• No surgical incision or organ removal
• Safe, cost-effective procedure when compared to hysterectomy
• Performed as an outpatient
• Hormone status is unaffected
• Enables women to resume normal activities within 4-7 days versus 4-6 weeks after a hysterectomy

What should I expect during the procedure?
The operation is done in an outpatient surgical facility. You will be sedated under general anesthesia or you will have a spinal block. Without making an incision, your doctor will insert a telescopic instrument (hysteroscope) through the vagina, past the cervix, and into the uterus. The hysteroscope contains a camera and light source, which enable your doctor to view the inside of your uterus on a TV screen. The lining of the uterus that is responsible for your monthly period is methodically ablated or destroyed. Upon completion of the ablation procedure, you will be taken to the recovery area to rest and to recuperate from the anesthesia. Most patients return to their home the same day of the procedure.

What should I expect after the procedure?
You can expect mild to moderate vaginal bleeding lasting anywhere from 4-14 days. You should call our office if the bleeding is greater than what you would expect from a normal period and also if you run a fever greater than 101 degrees. You can expect to urinate frequently the first day or so and mild uterine cramping for the first few days postoperatively. You can relieve this uterine discomfort with Extra Strength Tylenol, Advil, or Aleve. A prescription for stronger pain medicine can be given if your doctor decides it is necessary.

For the first few days postoperatively you should get lots of rest and have only light activity. You can resume a normal schedule after 4-7 days. However, you should refrain from inserting anything into your vagina for 2 weeks. This restriction includes tampons, douching, and sexual intercourse.