Endometrial ablation is an outpatient surgery that can reduce or stop heavy uterine bleeding. Ablation is done when your health care provider has ruled out known causes of abnormal bleeding, such as pregnancy. During ablation, the endometrium (lining of the uterus) is destroyed. this removes the blood vessels and helps control bleeding. Treatment takes less than an hour, and you can go home later that day.

Preparing For Surgery

You may be given medication by mouth or injection for a few weeks or months before your ablation. This thins the lining and reduces bleeding. A day or two before surgery, a special substance (laminaria) may be put into your cervix (the opening to the uterus). This widens the opening. To help prevent problems with anesthesia, do not eat or drink anything after midnight before surgery.

What Happens During Ablation

You will be given anesthesia so you feel no pain during surgery. Then your uterus is filled with fluid. This puts pressure on the lining to help prevent bleeding. It also allows your doctor to put a small telescope-like instrument through the cervix. A rollerball or wire loop is attached to the end of the scope. A mild electric current flows through the tip and destroys the lining. Sometimes a laser is attached to the scope, and the tissue is destroyed with heat. The scope may also be connected to a video monitor. This allows your doctor to see the tip as it is moved over the endometrium.

Your Recovery

You may have cramping or aching in your abdomen after surgery. Your doctor can give you pain medication. You may also have a bloody discharge or even bleeding that's like a period for a few days or weeks. Use sanitary pads, not tampons. And don't have sexual intercourse  or play active sports for the first 2 weeks after surgery. You can likely return to work in a couple of days. You will see your health care provider in about 4 weeks to make sure you are healing well.

After Treatment

After ablation, your bleeding should decrease. Even if it doesn't stop totally, the flow is likely to be much lighter. Remember: You still need regular Pap tests and pelvic exams. Removing the lining doesn't prevent other uterine problems. Once you heal, you should be able to get back to the things you enjoy without worrying about heavy bleeding.