Lighter Periods Without Daily Hormones
A minimally invasive option to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding for those who are finished with childbearing.
Endometrial ablation treats heavy menstrual bleeding by removing or destroying the uterine lining (endometrium). There are no abdominal incisions, recovery is typically quick, and many patients experience substantially lighter periods—or no bleeding at all. It's designed for people who are done with pregnancy and want a non-hormonal solution.
Fast Facts
Outpatient procedure; no abdominal incisions
Goal: reduce heavy bleeding; some stop bleeding completely
Not a contraception method—pregnancy afterward is unsafe
Most return to routine activities within 24–48 hours
Who Might Benefit
- Heavy or prolonged periods impacting work or quality of life
- Bleeding unresponsive to medications or IUD, or not tolerated
- Anemia or iron deficiency from menstrual blood loss
- Completed childbearing and seeking a uterine-sparing option
How It Works
Through the cervix, a device treats the endometrium with energy (for example heat, radiofrequency, or fluid). The procedure reshapes or thins the lining so there's less tissue to shed each month. We confirm the uterine cavity is appropriate for ablation and rule out other causes of bleeding beforehand.
Why It Matters
Heavy bleeding can drive fatigue, anemia, missed activities, and worry about accidents. Ablation offers a non-hormonal, uterus-preserving way to reduce flow and relieve symptoms without a long recovery.
Ablation vs. Other Options
Endometrial Ablation
- Non-hormonal; quick recovery
- High satisfaction for heavy bleeding
- Not for anyone planning future pregnancy
- Irreversible; lining does not regrow normally
Levonorgestrel IUD
- Hormonal; can reduce bleeding markedly
- Reversible and contraceptive
- May cause spotting/cramping early on
- Can be removed if not tolerated
Hysterectomy
- Definitive; eliminates uterine bleeding
- Surgical recovery and higher cost
- Appropriate for select conditions or failures of other care
- Contraception no longer needed afterward
What to Expect
Most ablations take 10–30 minutes. You may receive oral medication, local anesthesia, or light sedation depending on the setting. Cramping like a strong period is common the day of the procedure. A watery or light bloody discharge can last for a few days to weeks while the lining heals. Most people resume normal activities within 24–48 hours.
Safety & Considerations
Before ablation, we evaluate the uterine cavity and may obtain an endometrial sample to rule out atypia or malignancy. After ablation, reliable contraception is essential until menopause—pregnancy can be dangerous. Potential risks include infection, bleeding, uterine perforation, fluid shifts, or, later, cyclic pelvic pain if scarring blocks flow. Careful selection and technique minimize these risks.
Before Your Visit
- ✓Bring recent ultrasound or biopsy results if available
- ✓Take an NSAID 30–60 minutes prior unless advised otherwise
- ✓Arrange a ride if sedation is planned
- ✓Avoid intravaginal products and intercourse for 24 hours beforehand
- ✓Plan reliable contraception after the procedure
Frequently Asked Questions
1Will my periods stop completely?
Many patients have dramatically lighter bleeding; some stop bleeding altogether. Results vary by age, uterine anatomy, and underlying causes. We discuss expected outcomes for your specific situation.
2Can I get pregnant after ablation?
Pregnancy after ablation is unsafe for both parent and fetus. You'll need effective contraception until menopause or consider a permanent option.
3How long is the recovery?
Most return to normal routines within 1–2 days. Expect cramping the first day and a watery or light bloody discharge for days to weeks as the lining heals.
4Will I still need a biopsy or Pap tests in the future?
Cervical cancer screening (Pap/HPV) continues per guidelines. If bleeding patterns change after ablation, we may recommend evaluation; sampling can still be performed if indicated.
5What if I have fibroids?
Ablation treats the lining, not fibroids themselves. Submucosal fibroids that distort the cavity may be better addressed with hysteroscopic resection prior to or instead of ablation.
Lighten Your Periods, Reclaim Your Time
If heavy bleeding is impacting your life and you're done with pregnancy, endometrial ablation could be a simple, effective option.
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