Endometrial ablation is a surgical procedure that destroys the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium, to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding. The procedure can be done in a hospital, outpatient surgery center, or a healthcare providers office. There are different methods of endometrial ablation, including:
- Radiofrequency ablation: A triangular ablation device uses radiofrequency energy to destroy the tissue lining the uterus.
- Electrocautery ablation: A slender scope is used to see inside the uterus, and a tool, such as a wire loop or a probe with a rollerball tip or an electrode tip, is passed through the scope. The tool uses electric current to remove or destroy the uterine lining.
- Cryoablation: A probe with very cold temperature is used to freeze the lining.
- Microwave ablation: Microwave energy is sent through a thin probe to destroy the lining.
- Hydrothermal ablation: A heated liquid is put into the uterus through a catheter and pumped around the uterus to destroy the lining.
- Balloon ablation: A small balloon is put through the cervical opening and into the uterus. Hot liquid is put into the balloon to destroy the uterus lining.
- Other methods include heated gas, free-flowing heated saline, heated fluid within a balloon, and heated water vapor.
Endometrial ablation is not recommended for women who are pregnant or want to become pregnant in the future, as pregnancies following ablation can be dangerous for both mother and fetus. The procedure may also reduce the chances of getting pregnant in the future. Women who have uterine, cervical, or endometrial cancer, pelvic inflammatory disease, a vaginal or cervical infection, a weak wall to their uterus, an infection of the uterus, a scar from a Caesarean section, an intrauterine device, or a disorder of the uterus or endometrium should not have endometrial ablation. The risks of endometrial ablation include scarring of the lining of the womb, infection of the uterus, damage to the cervix, severe bleeding, and damage to the bowels.
