Treatments: Endometrial Ablation

The lining of the uterus is referred to as the endometrium. This lining is what is being shed and appears as the menstrual flow during a period.

This lining can be destroyed through a number of techniques so that no bleeding occurs at the time that a period would be expected. The destruction is referred to as ablation and can be accomplished by either using a hysteroscope to cut away and cauterize the lining, or, by applying heat to the inner wall of the uterus.

This latter method is relatively new and often uses various devices that introduce hot water or heated coils into the cavity of the uterus. Eventually, this form of ablation may be performed in a doctor's office.

Endometrial ablation is not a procedure that can be used for women who wish to attempt pregnancy and, as a consequence, permanent sterilization in the form of tubal ligation is offered to women undergoing this operation.

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