Approximately 1 in 5 women has heavy bleeding at some point during her lifetime. This is often more common as we age, particulary in our 40s and 50s as we approach menopause. This can be caused by hormonal conditions, other medical conditions, and/or physical changes with the uterus such as fibroids. Having irregular or heavy periods can not only lead to one losing too much blood and becoming anemic, it can also be lifestyle altering – keeping you from participating in certain social events, exercise, work – not to mention constantly worrying about having tampons, pads, and extra clothes on hand.
Sometimes heavy bleeding can be improved with diet and exercise and by controlling other medical problems. Sometimes it can be controlled with hormonal options, such as any number of “birth control” options. However, for some, these methods are unsuccessful. And, for some, pleading with their GYN to “take it all out” becomes the next logical step. Fortunately, there is a middle ground, a less invasive option.
Endometrial ablation is a short outpatient procedure that works by destroying a thin layer of the lining of the uterus. For most women, this significantly reduces the amount of blood loss and shortens the length of the period. There are several different methods of ablation and your physician can help determine which may be the best based on the situation. Patients are given some sort of pain relief and sedative to help them relax before the procedure. On average, the procedure takes about 10 minutes, depending on the the type of ablation and the patient’s uterus. Although there are risks to all surgery, endometrial ablation is overall very safe and side effects during recovery are very mild.
After ablation, most women still have light bleeding or spotting. For some, all menstrual flow is stopped and for some, regular periods continue. If ablation does not control the heavy bleeding, further treatment may be required. It is important to remember that all reproductive organs are still in place after ablation, therefore it is important to continue to have yearly gyn exams.
Talk with your doctor to see if endometrial ablation would benefit you!
Maria Muessling, M.D.
Tags: endometrial ablation, fibroids, health, maria muessling, richmond, Virginia Physicans for Women, virginia physicians for women, vpfw, women