Endometrial Ablation

What is an Endometrial Ablation

Endometrial ablation is a procedure that surgically destroys (ablates) the lining of your uterus (endometrium). The goal of endometrial ablation is to reduce menstrual flow. In some women, menstrual flow may stop completely.

No incisions are needed for endometrial ablation. Your doctor inserts slender tools through the passageway between your vagina and uterus (cervix).

The tools vary, depending on the method used to ablate the endometrium. Methods might include extreme cold, heated fluids, microwave energy or high-energy radiofrequencies.

Reasons for an Edometrial Ablation

Endometrial ablation is a treatment for excessive menstrual blood loss. Your doctor might recommend endometrial ablation if you have:

Unusually heavy periods, sometimes defined as soaking a pad or tampon every two hours or less

Bleeding that lasts longer than eight days

Anemia from excessive blood loss

To reduce menstrual bleeding, doctors generally start by prescribing medications or an intrauterine device (IUD).

Endometrial ablation might be an option if these other treatments do not help or if you're not able to have other therapies.