Menstrual bleeding, also known as menorrhagia, can be more than just a nuisance. It can be disruptive and troubling issue that causes problems with your daily routine, work and relationships, as well as psychological well-being. For certain women, the quantity of loss of blood per month can cause fatigue, anemia and an ongoing pattern of discomfort. Although hormonal treatments and medications are typically utilized as the primary method for treatment options, they do not perform for all women.
If you’ve exhausted your alternatives and are still suffering from extreme heavy periods, an endometrial ablation could be the next step towards permanent relief. This procedure, which is minimally invasive, has helped a lot of women to regain control of their menstrual health without having to undergo major procedure like an surgery called a hysterectomy.
What is Endometrial Ablation?
Endometrial ablation is a surgical procedure that destroys or removes the endometrium, a small layer of tissue which runs along the uterus. It is the part of the uterus which builds every month and sheds during menstrual flow. In removing this lining the aim is to lessen or even eliminate bleeding during menstrual cycles.
In contrast to a hysterectomy where your entire uterus can be surgically eliminated endometrial ablation protects the uterus, and requires no large incisions. It’s usually done in an outpatient manner which means you are able to go home the next day. The recovery process is usually quick and the results can be impressive. A lot of women report a total end to their menstrual cycle or significantly less bleeding afterwards.
Why Women Choose Endometrial Ablation
There are a variety of reasons endometrial ablation is now a common method for reducing heavy bleeding during menstrual cycles. It is an alternative that is less invasive than major surgery and offers an earlier recovery time. It is particularly beneficial for women who aren’t planning to have children but want the best solution for their bleeding issues.
Common signs for endometrial ablation include menstrual bleeding lasting more than 7 days frequently blood clotting, the necessity to change your sanitary products every 1 to 2 hour, as well as anemia that is caused by loss of blood. This is also a choice for women who are unable or do not want to use hormonal treatments or haven’t found relief from medications.
Types of Endometrial Ablation Techniques
There are a variety of techniques that can be employed to accomplish endometrial ablation using a variety of techniques. Each technique is developed to remove the lining of the endometrial by using different methods of energy. The most popular methods is radiofrequency ablation which makes use of an electric current to melt and evaporate the tissue of the endometrial lining quickly and equally.
Another option is to use thermal balloon ablation which is the process of having a balloon implanted into the uterus, and filled with heated liquid. When the balloon expands, it applies heat to inner lining of the uterus and causes it to be destroyed. Cryoablation, a procedure that uses extreme freezing of the endometrial liner, is a different method which gradually leads to removal of the affected tissue.
Microwave ablation makes application in the microwave to create heat and eliminate the lining. Hydrothermal ablation makes use of heated saline fluid in the uterus achieve the same outcome. The method used will be based on the size and shape of the uterus as well as medical background, and the equipment available in the clinic or hospital.
Benefits of Endometrial Ablation
Endometrial ablation comes with a variety of advantages, particularly in comparison to more extensive surgical procedures. It is the first and foremost benefit that it’s not as invasive. The majority of procedures are done through the cervix and vagina which eliminates the need for incisions. This means less postoperative discomfort and faster recovery.
Women usually return to normal activities within one or two days and, in a lot of cases, in just an hour. A majority of women experience a dramatic decrease in bleeding, and some stopping their menstrual cycle completely. Studies suggest that 30-50 percent of women do not experience periods following the procedure.
Contrary to many treatment options for heavy menstrual cycles and heavy menstrual flow, endometrial ablation doesn’t depend on hormones. This makes it an ideal alternative for women who are unable to utilize hormonal treatments or are concerned about long-term negative effects. It is also an effective, safe and less invasive alternative to hysterectomy with less risk and a shorter hospitalization or no hospital stay whatsoever.
The Procedure – What to Expect
Before you undergo the procedure, your doctor might require a series or evaluations to ensure that you’re suitable for the procedure. These could include pelvic exams as well as ultrasounds and an endometrial biopsy to rule out cancerous or precancerous issues. A pregnancy test is mandatory, as the procedure isn’t safe during pregnancy.
When you are scheduled for your procedure, you could receive local or regional anesthesia based on the method employed and your specific requirements. The majority of endometrial ablation procedures last approximately 20-30 minutes to finish. There may be some discomfort or cramps that are like menstrual cramps or following the procedure.
Recovery can be quick. If you experience small cramps, bleeding, or the appearance of spotting over a period of time but most women can get back to work and their regular routines in 48 to 72 hours. The doctor might prescribe medication for pain relief, and may recommend avoidance of strenuous activities and sexual contact for a short period.
Who is a Good Candidate?
The procedure is best to women that have already completed their families or who are certain they will not get pregnant again in the near future. It is not intended to prevent births however, it does significantly reduce the likelihood of getting pregnant. However, if a pregnancy occurs following ablation, the process may be harmful for both the mother and child. Therefore, an effective contraception program is suggested regardless of ablation.
It isn’t recommended for women suffering from certain ailments like cancer of the uterus, current infections, a large uterus, or any other abnormalities that may hinder the treatment. The doctor who treats you will examine your health history, and run the tests required to determine if you’re an appropriate candidate to undergo the treatment.
Life After Endometrial Ablation
For the majority of women, the quality of life following the procedure is greatly improved. The decreased flow of menstrual blood permits better control of the schedule of one’s life, greater energy as a result of higher hemoglobin levels and reduction of symptoms such as fatigue, cramping and anemia. Many women experience a renewed feeling of relief from the daily stress of excessive blood loss and accidents.
Women may experience periodic or light periods, and in some cases bleeding can come back after a period of time. In these instances, further treatment, such as repeated ablation or a hysterectomy could be thought of. It is essential to schedule regular check-ups with your gynecologist in order to track your health and ensure the effects of the procedure are maintained.
Conclusion
Endometrial ablation is an effective reliable, efficient and minimally invasive procedure that dramatically improves living quality of women suffering from the heavy flow of menstrual blood. It can bridge the gap between medications and major surgery, providing long-term relief and minimal downtime. Although it isn’t suitable for all but it could be an exciting option for those who are the right candidates.
If you’ve been enduring from heavy menstrual flow and would like to find a permanent solution, speak to an gynecologist to determine if an endometrial ablation procedure is suitable for you. The process of taking charge of your menstrual health not about just comfort. It’s about getting back your confidence as well as your life.
