Endometrial ablation is a procedure where the lining of the uterus (known as the endometrium) is surgically removed (ablated). It is performed to help women who experience irregular menstrual bleeding patterns. This includes especially heavy periods, periods that last longer than eight days, or excessive blood loss that can cause the development of anemia. For some women, an endometrial ablation can be a good alternative to undergoing a hysterectomy.
All surgeries, even relatively minor ones like endometrial ablation, come with some slight degree of risk. With safety in mind, we wanted to address one of the gynecological procedures we regularly perform, endometrial ablation, and why it is safe for women to undergo.
We use two different methods to perform endometrial ablation procedures. These include the Minerva system, which uses radio frequency (heat), and the Hydro ThermAblator (HTA), which circulates heated water through the uterus. Both methods have their own potential risk, however these are very rare regardless of the chosen procedure method. There is a slight risk of post-surgical infection or bleeding. Extreme heat can potentially damage the vagina or vulva in very rare cases. It’s very important to remember that the prevalence of all these potential risks and complications is very low.
By and large, this is considered a very safe procedure and the patient satisfaction rate after an endometrial ablation is very high. However, in order to promote safety and outstanding, long-lasting results from an ablation, it’s essential to find an experienced board-certified gynecologist to perform the procedure.
Here at Gynecology Associates of Gwinnett, we make patient safety our highest priority during every appointment. Regardless of whether a woman comes into our office for a routine health screening or a procedure like an endometrial ablation, we do everything we can to ensure their comfort and wellbeing from the consultation phase through their recovery and follow-up period. For more information or to request an appointment with one of our reproductive healthcare providers, please contact Gynecology Associates of Gwinnett today. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more information, tips, news and details on our upcoming health and wellness events.
