What Is Endometrial Ablation and When Is It the Right Choice?

Endometrial ablation can stop heavy menstrual (period) bleeding or at least decrease it by a lot. If your heavy bleeding causes you anxiety, leads you to miss out on fun times, or impacts your confidence, it may be time to explore options such as endometrial ablation. 

Experienced obstetrician and gynecologist Asia Mohsin, MD, specializes in treating heavy and irregular bleeding at Progressive Women’s Health OB/GYN in Friendswood, Texas.

One in 3 women who menstruate seeks treatment for heavy bleeding. For many, endometrial ablation is an excellent, low-risk option. 

What endometrial ablation treats

Endometrial ablation can reduce heavy periods for a long time. When you bleed a lot during your period, you risk experiencing anemia. Anemia results from losing substantial blood, making you feel weak and tired. 

Heavy bleeding can happen for multiple reasons, and hormone imbalances are among the most common. Some hormone imbalances cause the lining of your uterus to thicken more than usual, resulting in more bleeding when it sheds during your period. 

Before recommending endometrial ablation, Dr. Mohsin explores possible causes, including hormone imbalances, fibroids, polyps, and genetic bleeding disorders. 

How endometrial ablation works

Endometrial ablation destroys the lining of your uterus so it doesn’t become excessively thick. There are a few ways that can happen. Your endometrial ablation could involve:

• Heated fluid
• A heated balloon
• Cold temperatures
• Radiofrequency
• Electricity

Dr. Mohsin gives you the details of your endometrial ablation procedure so you know what to expect. She provides instructions so you can prepare for a smooth treatment, such as taking a pregnancy test or getting an ultrasound imaging test. 

Best candidates for endometrial ablation

Endometrial ablation can be a highly effective treatment for heavy menstrual bleeding, but discuss it with Dr. Mohsin to make sure it’s the best choice for you. 

You might be a candidate for endometrial ablation if:

• Your periods last longer than a week
• You bleed through pads and tampons by the hour
• You experience anemic symptoms, like feeling cold or fatigue, because of heavy periods
• Your periods hold you back from living life to the fullest
• You’re certain you don’t want future pregnancies
• You’re willing to use birth control until you reach menopause
• You don’t want a hysterectomy

Dr. Mohsin performs a complete medical history and physical exam while helping you decide if endometrial ablation is right for you. 

Get in touch to learn more

Do you have questions about endometrial ablation and how it treats heavy and irregular periods? Call Progressive Women’s Health OB/GYN or request your appointment online today.