The Ultimate Guide To Endometrial Ablation

What is Endometrial Ablation?

Endometrial ablation is one of several non-hormonal treatment options of heavy periods. It is a non-invasive surgical procedure involving the delivery of high-dose radio, thermal, or microwave energy inside the uterus to destroy (ablate) the internal lining (endometrium) of the uterus. A thin telescope (hysteroscope) is passed through the cervix and into the uterus. It is fitted with a light source and video camera to allow the surgeon to examine the internal lining of the uterus through a video monitor. The ablation procedure is then performed. Most women have much lighter periods, and many have no periods at all after endometrial ablation. It is usually done under general anaesthetic as a day procedure without any incisions (cuts into your body). Recovery from the procedure usually takes 1-2 days. If permanent contraception such as tying or removal of fallopian tubes through a laparoscopic surgery is offered at the same time, recovery may take up to 1 week. Permanent contraception is recommended to prevent pregnancy in the abnormal ablated endometrium. Dr Kent Kuswanto is a certified and experienced Melbourne gynaecologist who can guide you through the process of an endometrial ablation. Get in touch to learn more today.

Reasons to Undergo Endometrial Ablation

If you suffer from abnormally heavy bleeding during your period, endometrial ablation could be the answer to your troubles.

Around 1 in 3 women are thought to experience abnormally heavy periods. The symptoms of abnormally heavy periods include:

• bleeding for more than eight days every cycle
• heavy blood loss during the menstrual period – for example, passing clots or soaking through one or more sanitary pads or tampons every hour for several consecutive hours
• needing to change your pad or tampon during the night
• having to change or restrict your daily activities due to your heavy bleeding
• symptoms of iron deficiency and/or anaemia including fatigue

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, contact your local doctor to discuss your treatment options or contact Dr Kent Kuswanto’s office if you have a referral to see a specialist gynaecologist.

Should you Consider an Endometrial Ablation?

Endometrial ablation is suitable for women who:

• wants to avoid hormonal therapy (such as contraceptive pill, progesterone, or progesterone containing intrauterine device)
• wants to avoid hysterectomy
• have completed their family

Advantages of endometrial ablation include:

• one-time procedure
• can be done as a day procedure (no overnight hospital stay)
• 90% of women returned to normal or light periods
• Up to 50% of women reported having no periods at all
• Minimal pain after the procedure
• No incisions (cuts into your body)

If you are looking for an effective solution to your heavy periods, endometrial ablation may be suitable to you. If you wish to explore your suitability for this treatment option, discuss this with your local doctor or contact Dr Kent Kuswanto’s office for an appointment if you have a referral to see a specialist gynaecologist.

Who is Unsuitable for an Endometrial Ablation?

Endometrial ablation is not suitable for women who:

• have not completed their family
• have endometrial hyperplasia or cancer, or increased risk of these – including obesity
• have adenomyosis
• have abnormal endometrial cavity and shape, either from structural variants of the uterus (eg. septate) or fibroids
• want complete amenorrhoea (no period at all) – only hysterectomy achieves this
• are under 40 years old – as heavy periods may return when done in younger women
• want to avoid any surgery

The different treatment options for heavy periods are offered depending on your age, your medical condition, your fertility wishes, and personal preference. If you are interested in having an endometrial ablation, why not organise a consultation with Dr Kent Kuswanto, the expert in minimally invasive gynaecological surgery. Contact us today to speak to Dr Kent Kuswanto and the friendly team about all your pelvic health needs!