Endometrial ablation doesn’t require incisions. Instead, your McDowell Mountain Gynecology provider inserts specialized tools through your vagina to access the endometrium. There are several techniques, including electrosurgery that uses heat energy and cryoablation that uses cold energy, to destroy the tissue lining.

After your endometrial ablation is complete, you can expect to spend a brief time recovering before you can go home to rest. Many women return to their usual activities the next day, but you’ll need to limit sex, tampon use, and douching until your doctor clears you.

After your endometrial ablation, it’s common to experience cramping and feel like you need to urinate more often. You can use over-the-counter medications to keep you comfortable.

Vaginal discharge can also occur and last for several weeks. For some, discharge is heavy and mixed with blood in the first few days after the procedure, but it decreases over time.

As you continue to heal, you should notice a reduction in the amount of blood you lose during your period. It can take a few months to see the optimal results of your ablation and periods should keep getting lighter. Some women will no longer have a period at all.

Because pregnancy isn’t possible after endometrial ablation, your provider at McDowell Mountain Gynecology can discuss your options for birth control after an ablation.

If your quality of life is lessened by heavy bleeding, find out if you’re a candidate for endometrial ablation by calling McDowell Mountain Gynecology or requesting an appointment online today.