What is endometrial ablation?

Endometrial ablation is a minimally invasive procedure to treat heavy, prolonged menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia). During endometrial ablation, Dr. Okour removes or destroys the inner lining of your uterus.

After the lining is destroyed, your periods get significantly lighter. In some cases, your periods may stop.

You should only consider an endometrial ablation if you're sure you don't want to have a baby in the future.

Do I have treatment options other than endometrial ablation?

The first line of treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding typically involves hormonal medications, medications that promote blood clotting, or a hormone-containing intrauterine device (IUD). If they fail to restore normal bleeding, you need a procedure to stop the bleeding.

You may have a procedure to remove uterine fibroids or polyps (if they cause your bleeding). Otherwise, your other choices are endometrial ablation or hysterectomy (removing the uterus).

What type of endometrial ablation might I receive?

Before endometrial ablation, Dr. Okour takes a biopsy of your uterine lining. This protects your health by identifying any existing conditions like cancer.

Dr. Okour recommends one of the following:

Resectoscopic endometrial ablation

Dr. Okour uses a thin, tube-like instrument (resectoscope) that allows him to see inside your uterus. After passing specialized tools through the scope, he precisely removes the endometrium by a few millimeters at a time, a technique that requires specialized training.

Global endometrial ablation

This technique uses devices that go through the vagina and cervix and into your uterus. Then each device deploys a different type of energy that destroys the entire endometrial lining.

What type of global endometrial ablation might I receive?

These are a few examples of the different energy techniques:

Cryoablation

Dr. Okour inserts a probe into your uterus, and the probe produces ice that freezes the lining.

Thermal balloon ablation

This technique uses a narrow cannula (hollow tube) containing a medical-grade balloon. The balloon inflates with water, the device heats the water, and the heat destroys the uterus. 

Radiofrequency ablation

A device called NovaSure® offers one of today's most innovative endometrial ablation techniques. After Dr. Okour guides the NovaSure device into your uterus, it releases a net. 

The net expands, conforming to the shape of your uterus and covering the entire endometrial lining. Dr. Okour sends radiofrequency energy through the net, heating and destroying all of the tissues. 

If you need effective treatments for heavy bleeding, call Southern California Center for Advanced Gynecology, or book an appointment online today.