Endometrial Ablation is a highly-effective, alternate procedure to a hysterectomy-used to control heavy, prolonged menstrual bleeding when other treatment options have not been effective. The procedure involves use of a laser beam or other heat source, electricity, or freezing while the patient is under local or general anesthesia.
Endometrial ablation is typically done on an outpatient basis, with recovery requiring from a few days to two weeks. Younger women are less likely than older women to respond to endometrial ablation, and are more likely to continue to have periods and need a repeat procedure.
Endometrial ablation is not recommended if you have a high risk for endometrial cancer; and should not be considered if you plan to become pregnant in the future since the surgery usually causes sterility.
