WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What do I need to know about endometrial ablation? Endometrial ablation is a procedure to destroy the endometrium (lining of your uterus). You may need this procedure if you have heavy or abnormal vaginal bleeding. How do I prepare for the procedure? Your healthcare provider will talk to you about how to prepare for the procedure. You may be told not to eat or drink anything after midnight on the day of your procedure. You will also be told what medicines to take or not take on the day of your procedure. You may need someone to drive you home after the procedure and stay with you to make sure you are okay. What will happen during the procedure? You may be given local anesthesia to numb the area. You may instead be given general anesthesia to keep you asleep and free from pain during the procedure. Your surgeon will widen the opening of your cervix with medicine or medical tools. Ice, heated fluid, or electric energy may be used to destroy the lining of your uterus. What should I expect after the procedure? You may feel some discomfort for a few days. This is normal and should stop soon. Contact your healthcare provider if any of the following becomes severe or continues: - Cramps, similar to menstrual cramps, for 1 to 2 days
- Watery, bloody discharge for 2 to 3 days that may become light and last a few weeks
- Frequent urination for 24 hours
- Nausea
What are the risks of endometrial ablation? You may not be able to get pregnant after endometrial ablation. You may bleed more than expected or get an infection in your vagina, urinary tract, or uterus. Your cervix, uterus, or nearby organs may be burned or damaged. You may get a blood clot in your leg or arm. A blockage may form over months to years and cause blood to pool inside your uterus. This blockage may cause severe pain and you may need a hysterectomy. You may also need a hysterectomy if endometrial ablation does not work. |