Who is a candidate for uterine ablation

Endometrial ablation is a procedure that permanently removes the lining of the uterus using some type of energy, such as heat, cold, or electricity. Removing this lining greatly reduces the chance of future conception. There are two different types, says Dr. Nicholas Leyland, chair and chief of the department of obstetrics and gynecology at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ont.

NovaSure , the non-resectoscopic technique used at McMaster, delivers bursts of radio-frequency electricity via mesh, and typically takes less than ten minutes. Some possible side-effects include nausea and cramping, which typically pass within a few days, and vaginal discharge, which can last a week or two. Abnormally heavy periods that are seriously affecting your life make you a candidate for ablation. You should also be finished having children but still willing to use some form of birth control, since pregnancy following ablation is uncommon, but dangerous.

Endometrial ablation also works well for those who have abnormal uterine bleeding, which means you bleed outside of your monthly cycles. If you have more questions about an endometrial ablation and whether the procedure is right for you, we invite you to contact one of our offices in McAllen or Edinburg, Texas. Women are no strangers to pelvic organ prolapse, especially as age and childbirth weaken their support systems.

While several pelvic organs can prolapse, we take a closer look at one type of prolapse here — vaginal prolapse. There are situations in which your uterus has become more of a liability than an asset, and a hysterectomy may be your best treatment option for improving your health and your quality of life. Here, we outline five steps you can take to manage your high-risk pregnancy.

Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Accessed July 15, Pfenninger JL, et al. Endometrial ablation. Philadelphia, Pa. Kaunitz AM. Approach to abnormal uterine bleeding in nonpregnant reproductive-age women. Strauss JF, et al. Benign uterine diseases. Ferri FF. In: Ferri's Clinical Advisor Frequently asked questions. Special procedures FAQ American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Wortman M, et al. Late-onset endometrial ablation failure — Etiology, treatment, and prevention.

Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology. Bradley LD. Overview of hysteroscopy. Accessed July 14, Endometrial ablation or resection: Resectoscopic techniques. Laughlin-Tommaso SK expert opinion. Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Related Balloon ablation Choosing the best treatment for uterine fibroids Menorrhagia heavy menstrual bleeding Perimenopause Radiofrequency ablation Uterine fibroids Show more related content.

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