What is endometrial ablation?

Endometrial ablation is a surgical procedure in which the lining of the uterus is destroyed. This helps to reduce menstrual flow, or in some cases, stop it entirely.

How does it work?

In order to perform endometrial ablation, your surgeon will place small surgical tools through the vagina and cervix, into the uterus. The tools will destroy the uterus lining with either high-energy radiofrequencies or extremely hot or cold substances. There are a number of methods of endometrial ablation including:

Electrosurgery A scope is inserted into the uterus and used to carve into the uterus lining.

Cryoablation The lining of the uterus is frozen and destroyed with the use of very cold ice balls.

Hot liquid A heated saline liquid is placed into the uterus in order to destroy the lining.