Endometrial Ablation - Know Utility Of It!

Slight discomfort and pain is normally associated with every woman's monthly menstrual cycle. However, for some women, this discomfort can restrict their normal activities and put them in a lot of pain. This is often accompanied by heavy menstrual bleeding. Medication is usually the first line of treatment for heavy periods, but if this is not effective surgical options may need to be looked at. Amongst the surgical ways to deal with painful menstruation and heavy bleeding is a procedure known as endometrial ablation.

Endometrial ablation is a surgical procedure that removes the lining of the uterus or endometrium. The procedure is usually performed under spinal or local anesthesia and takes less than an hour. In some cases, the patient may need to go under general anesthesia. This surgery is often performed as an outpatient procedure. This can be performed in a number of ways. Some of the common forms of endometrial ablation are:

1. Laser ablation
2. Heat ablation using either heated saline or radio frequency
3. Electric removal of uterine lining
4. Freezing
5. Microwave removal

Though the procedure is performed as an outpatient procedure, it can take up to 2 weeks for complete recovery. The woman may notice watery discharge for a day or two accompanied by cramps and nausea. However, after such a procedure, most women do not have a period for the next few months. While this may stop menstrual bleeding completely for older women, younger women should see reduced menstrual bleeding, but may also need a repeat procedure later.

Though many women can conceive after such a procedure, endometrial ablation is usually not recommended for women who intend on having children later. It is usually suggested as an alternative to a hysterectomy. It is also not recommended for women who have a high risk of developing endometrial cancer. Endometrial ablation can be performed if the woman suffers from minor fibroids but is avoidable if the woman suffers from large fibroids. A vaginal or pelvic infection of any kind will also prevent a woman from undergoing this procedure.

Like any other procedure, this one is associated with a number of certain risks as well, such as

1. Infection and bleeding
2. Rupturing the uterine wall or bowel walls
3. Excessive fluid in the bloodstream

Thus in order to reduce the risks associated, utmost care must be taken, both by a doctor and patient and in case of any bleeding that lasts longer than two days should be immediately brought to your doctor's notice.