Endometrial Ablation

A treatment for heavy menstrual bleeding

Endometrial, or uterine, ablation is a procedure that removes or destroys the lining of the uterine cavity (the endometrium). Below are answers to some of our most frequently asked questions about endometrial ablation.

Endometriosis and Adenomyosis Care Collaborative, Newton-Wellesley Hospital
2014 Washington Street
Newton, MA 02462
Phone: 617-8317525

What Is Endometrial Ablation?

Endometrial ablation, or destruction of the lining of the uterus, is a treatment for heavy menstrual bleeding, also called menorrhagia. It is an alternative to hysterectomy for the treatment of menorrhagia in women who wish to keep their uterus or avoid major surgery.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Endometrial Ablation?

Good candidates include women who:

• Are pre-menopausal
• Have heavy bleeding caused by a benign (noncancerous) condition
• Have finished having children and are not interested in future fertility
• Wish to retain their uteruses

What Techniques Are Used for Endometrial Ablation?

There are many different techniques for performing endometrial ablation. Our gynecologic surgeons use a variety of endometrial ablation techniques, depending on your specific needs. Examples of such techniques include:

• Rollerball endometrial ablation destroys the endometrium through delivering heated energy under direct visualization with a hysteroscope. Other uterine lesions, such as polyps and fibroids, can be removed during the same procedure using this technique.
• NovaSure® endometrial ablation uses heat to remove the lining of the uterus.
• ThermaChoice® Balloon endometrial ablation uses hot water circulating through a balloon to destroy the lining of the uterus.
• HTA Hydro ThermAblator® uses hot circulating water to destroy the lining of the uterus.
• Her Option® endometrial ablation applies subzero temperatures to destroy the lining of the uterus.

What Can I Expect from the Endometrial Ablation Procedure?

Endometrial ablation is an outpatient procedure with a short recovery period. It can either be performed in the office or as an outpatient procedure in the operating room. You might experience some cramping after the procedure; ibuprofen is usually adequate to treat pain.

It is common to have a vaginal discharge for two to four weeks after the procedure. Most women are typically back to their normal activities in one to two days.

What Can I Expect from My Recovery from Endometrial Ablation?

The recovery process will vary depending upon the type of ablation performed and the type of anesthesia that was administered.

If you received anesthesia in the operating room, you will be taken to the recovery room for observation. Once your blood pressure, pulse, and breathing are stable and you are alert, you are discharged home. Another person needs to drive you home. If your ablation was performed in the office, you can go home in about 30 minutes.

Learn about your self-care instructions after you go home.

How Successful Is Endometrial Ablation?

Success rates vary depending on the technique used. When combining all the different techniques:

• About 40 percent of women will have no periods (amenorrhea) after an endometrial ablation.
• About 85 to 90 percent of women have either no periods or decreased bleeding. They are satisfied with the outcome of the ablation and do not need further treatment.
• About 10 to 15 percent  of women will require additional treatment, such as a hysterectomy.