Hysteroscopic Endometrial Ablation at Oaks Hospital

This webpage will give you information about an endometrial ablation. If you have any questions, you should ask your GP or other relevant health professional.

What does the Operation Involve?

An endometrial ablation is usually performed under a general anaesthetic. The operation usually takes about half an hour.

Your gynaecologist will pass a hysteroscope (telescope with operating instruments) through your vagina and cervix into the cavity of your womb and pass fluid through the telescope to swell the womb (see figure 1).

They will use electricity or laser energy to remove the lining of your womb and any polyps or small fibroids they find.

Heavy periods can be treated using a variety of oral medications.

Other alternatives include a hormonal coil.

Most women will experience a noticeable reduction in their periods and, in some cases, periods stop altogether.

An endometrial ablation has fewer complications and a quicker recovery time than a hysterectomy.

General complications of any operation

Pain
Feeling or being sick
Bleeding or discharge
Infection
Blood clots

Specific early complications of this operation

Bleeding during the procedure
Fluid overload
Making a hole in the womb
Failed procedure
Haematometra
Blood and fluid collecting in the fallopian tubes
Continued bleeding or pain

An endometrial ablation is an operation to remove the lining (endometrium) of the uterus (womb).

You should be able to go home the same day.

You should be able to return to normal activities after two to four days. Most women are fit for work after about a week.

You should expect to have some bleeding or discharge for up to six weeks after the operation.

Regular exercise should help you to return to normal activities as soon as possible. Before you start exercising, you should ask a member of the healthcare team or your GP for advice.

The operation is not recommended for women who still want children.

However, even if your periods stop, there is still a risk of you becoming pregnant.

Oaks Hospital Specialists

Mr Fadi Alfhaily

Mr Fadi Alfhaily is a Consultant Gynaecologist specialising in Colposcopy, urogynaecology and preconception clinic at Oaks Hospital, Essex
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Mr Haytham Fardoun

Mr Haytham Fardoun is a Consultant Gynaecologist in Essex
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Mr Kamran Safdar Rao

Mr Kamran Safdar Rao is a Consultant Gynaecologist in Colchester, Essex
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Mr Rohit Sharma

Mr Rohit Sharma is a Consultant Gynaecologist in Colchester
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Miss Sasha Taylor

Miss Sasha Taylor is a Consultant Gynaecologist and BMS Menopause specialist, with interests in pelvic pain, endometriosis and vulval conditions in Essex
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Hysteroscopic Endometrial Ablation