Endometrial ablation
Endometrial ablation is a procedure where the endometrial lining is removed or destroyed to reduce menstrual bleeding. This technique is most often employed for women who suffer from excessive or prolonged bleeding during periods which cannot be controlled with medications and do not wish to undergo a hysterectomy.
Am I suitable for endometrial ablation
Endometrial ablation should not be done in patients who may want to get pregnant. While in most cases the endometrial lining is destroyed, regrowth of the lining can occur in normal and abnormal ways. In younger women, tissue regrowth may occur months or years later.
How is endometrial ablation done
Endometrial ablation is done by introducing a hysteroscope to visualise the endometrial lining and using a heated device to destroy the lining. Some patients may stop having periods while others may continue to have periods but much lighter.
This procedure is helpful for many women but is not recommended for everyone. Mr Alak Pal can discuss if this is a good option for you.
How should I prepare for endometrial ablation
If you decide to go ahead with the procedure, Mr Alak Pal will discuss all aspects of the procedure in advance. This includes what you should and shouldn’t do in the days and weeks leading up to it.
Standard precautions include:
- taking a pregnancy test
- having your IUD removed, if you have one
- testing for endometrial cancer
What should I understand about my future fertility options before endometrial ablation
Endometrial ablation is not meant to be a sterilisation procedure, but it usually is. Although the reproductive organs remain intact, conception and successful pregnancy afterward is unlikely and carries risk to both you and the baby.
If you’re planning to have children, you should choose to wait to have this procedure. You should discuss your reproductive options with an infertility specialist before having the procedure.
What is my long term outlook after endometrial ablation
Recovery may take anything from a few days to a few weeks. During this time, make sure to treat yourself with care. Discuss with Mr Alak Pal when you can expect to resume daily activities, as well as more strenuous exercise and sexual intercourse.
Although periods reduce or may even stop completely within a few months, hormonal functioning remains unaffected. Although rare (0.7%), it is still possible to become pregnant after having this procedure which carries severe risks to both mother and baby. A contraceptive method must be used after endometrial ablation.
Approximately 80% of women who undergo this procedure find the results satisfactory. Of those, approximately 35% stop having periods altogether.
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Patient seen for : Dilation and Curettage
Dr Alak Pal was great. He made me feel comfortable and explained everything clearly, including next steps. Would recommend.
07-04-2022
Patient seen for : Hysteroscopy
Very professional and helpful in explaining everything. Helped me make an informed decision with this vast knowledge.
10-03-2022
Patient seen for : Total Abdominal Hysterectomy
From the initial appointment, surgery, aftercare and to my final appointment, Mr Pal was extremely professional and understanding to my particular medical circumstances. The entire abdominal hysterectomy procedure was extremely satisfactory. He spent time listening to any concerns that I had and explained clearly and simply the process surrounding the surgery. I would highly recommend him for anyone contemplating such a procedure. Additionally, post-surgical care and appointments were excellent too.
18-03-2020
Fantastic doctor, very pleased with consultation. Thanks
16-03-2020
