Endometrial Ablation Specialist

What is endometrial ablation?

Endometrial ablation is a gynecologic procedure that removes the endometrium, which is the inner lining of the uterus. The doctors at OB-GYN Associates of Marietta may recommend an endometrial ablation when heavy uterine bleeding persists despite other treatments.

While endometrial ablation is very effective for significantly diminishing or stopping abnormal bleeding, you should not consider the procedure if you plan to have children. After the uterine lining is ablated or removed, it’s hard to get pregnant. If you do become pregnant, you’re at risk for a miscarriage or other problems.

What is abnormal uterine bleeding?

Many women with heavy menstrual periods don’t know whether the flow is normal or heavy enough to warrant a visit to their provider at OB-GYN Associates of Marietta. Here are some guidelines that can help you decide whether your bleeding is abnormal. If you have any questions about your periods, call the office.

Abnormal uterine bleeding occurs when you have bleeding after menopause, between periods, or after sex. Bleeding during your menstrual period is too heavy when:

• Bleeding lasts more than 7-8 days
• Bleeding soaks through one or more tampons or pads per hour
• You need to wear more than one pad
• You need to change pads or tampons during the night
• You pass blood clots larger than a quarter

Keep in mind that these symptoms develop for many different reasons and they don’t always mean you’re headed for endometrial ablation.

What causes heavy menstrual bleeding?

Several gynecologic problems can cause heavy menstrual bleeding. The endometrium can become too thick if you don’t ovulate regularly, a problem that’s common with polycystic ovary syndrome. You may also develop heavy menstrual bleeding if you have uterine fibroids, polyps, adenomyosis, or pelvic inflammatory disease.

How do gynecologists perform endometrial ablation?

A variety of techniques are used to destroy the endometrium, including:

• Radiofrequency energy
• Freezing
• Heated fluid or a balloon filled with heated fluid
• Microwave energy
• Electrosurgery

The doctors at OB-GYN Associates of Marietta specialize in performing minimally invasive endometrial ablation. During this procedure, the surgical instruments are inserted through the vagina and cervix and into the uterus.

If you experience heavy bleeding, call OB-GYN Associates of Marietta or book an appointment online.