Endometrial Ablation

What is endometrial ablation?

Endometrial ablation is a minor surgical procedure in which Dr. Khamvongsa surgically destroys your uterine lining, or your endometrium, to reduce menstrual blood flow. Sometimes after endometrial ablation, your periods stop entirely. Dr. Khamvongsa might recommend you undergo the procedure if you have heavy menstrual bleeding that negatively affects your quality of life.

Is endometrial ablation right for me?

To find out if you’re a good candidate for endometrial ablation, Dr. Khamvongsa reviews your medical history, asks questions about your symptoms, and completes a comprehensive physical examination (including a pelvic exam). He might recommend you undergo blood tests, ultrasound, or other diagnostic procedures to detect or rule out specific OB/GYN issues.

If you have anemia from excessive blood loss, bleeding that lasts longer than eight days, or heavy periods that interfere with your everyday life, endometrial ablation might be right for you. Other treatment options that may reduce bleeding include medications and intrauterine devices (IUDs).

What happens during endometrial ablation?

To prepare for endometrial ablation Dr. Khamvongsa makes sure you’re not pregnant, checks for cancer, removes an IUD if you have one in place, and discusses your anesthesia options. He can numb the treatment area and offer you a sedative or use general anesthesia to put you asleep if you prefer. Follow all of your presurgical instructions.

During endometrial ablation, Dr. Khamvongsa inserts specialized tools through your cervix into your uterus to remove the uterine lining. He might use electrosurgery, extreme cold, heated fluid, microwaves, radiofrequency energy, or other methods without making any incisions.

What should I expect after the procedure?

After endometrial ablation, you might experience cramping, frequent urination, or vaginal discharge. Final results after the procedure may take a few months to appear. Expect lighter periods or no periods at all after endometrial ablation.

While it’s unlikely you’ll become pregnant after the procedure, it’s still possible so use contraception to reduce your chance of pregnancy. If you do become pregnant after endometrial ablation, there’s a good chance it can end in miscarriage.

If you’re tired of heavy menstrual bleeding that interferes with your everyday life or contributes to anemia, schedule an appointment with Peter A Khamvongsa, MD, FACOG, FACS, IF, over the phone or online today.