A Minimally Invasive Treatment for Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
Heavy menstrual bleeding can significantly impact quality of life, affecting daily activities, work, relationships, and overall well-being. Endometrial ablation is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure designed to reduce or eliminate heavy menstrual bleeding in appropriate candidates.
At Grassroots Health, we provide timely access to evaluation and treatment, offering a personalized approach that prioritizes both effectiveness and patient comfort.
What Is Endometrial Ablation?
Endometrial ablation is a procedure that removes or destroys the uterine lining (endometrium), which is responsible for menstrual bleeding. The goal is to significantly reduce menstrual flow and, in some cases, stop bleeding altogether.
Before recommending ablation, a comprehensive evaluation is performed to determine the cause of heavy bleeding and ensure the procedure is an appropriate treatment option.
Endometrial ablation may be considered for women who:
- Experience heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Have completed childbearing
- Desire an alternative to more invasive surgical procedures
- Have undergone appropriate diagnostic evaluation
Important Consideration
Endometrial ablation is not recommended for women who desire future pregnancy. It is intended for women who have completed childbearing. Although the procedure is not a form of sterilization, pregnancy after ablation can carry significant risks. Patients should discuss their reproductive plans with their physician before proceeding with treatment.
The Minerva® Endometrial Ablation System
We utilize the Minerva® Endometrial Ablation System, an advanced technology designed to safely and effectively treat heavy menstrual bleeding.
Benefits may include:
- Minimally invasive treatment
- Outpatient procedure
- Short treatment time
- Rapid recovery for most patients
- Significant reduction in menstrual bleeding
In selected patients, endometrial ablation may also be combined with a progesterone IUD as part of a comprehensive management strategy.
What to Expect After Endometrial Ablation
Most patients return home shortly after the procedure and resume normal activities within a short period of time. Mild cramping, spotting, or watery discharge may occur during the recovery process and typically improve over time.
Recovery experiences vary from person to person, and your physician will provide individualized post-procedure instructions based on your treatment plan.
Expected Results
Many women experience a significant reduction in menstrual bleeding following endometrial ablation. Some patients notice lighter periods, while others may experience little to no menstrual bleeding after treatment.
Individual results vary, and your physician will discuss realistic expectations during your consultation.
Why Patients Choose Endometrial Ablation
Effective Relief from Heavy Bleeding
Many patients experience a significant reduction in menstrual flow following treatment.
Minimally Invasive Approach
The procedure is performed without major surgery and is typically completed in an outpatient setting.
Experienced Procedural Care
Our practice offers a high level of procedural experience and individualized treatment planning.
Timely Access to Care
We understand that heavy bleeding can disrupt daily life and strive to provide prompt evaluation and treatment when appropriate.
A Minimally Invasive Alternative
For many women, endometrial ablation offers an effective alternative to more invasive surgical procedures. Treatment is performed in an outpatient setting without major incisions and is designed to reduce heavy bleeding while minimizing recovery time.
Is Endometrial Ablation Right for You?
Who May Benefit from Endometrial Ablation?
Endometrial ablation may be appropriate for women who:
- Experience heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Have completed childbearing
- Desire a minimally invasive treatment option
- Have not achieved adequate symptom control with conservative therapies
- Have undergone appropriate evaluation to identify the cause of abnormal bleeding
A consultation and diagnostic workup are necessary to determine whether endometrial ablation is the right treatment for your individual situation.
Who May Not Be a Candidate?
Endometrial ablation is generally not recommended for patients who:
- Desire future pregnancy
- Are currently pregnant
- Have certain uterine abnormalities
- Have an active pelvic infection
- Have not completed an appropriate diagnostic evaluation
Your physician will review your medical history and treatment goals to determine the safest and most effective option for you.
Anesthesia & Comfort Options
All procedures are offered with a patient-specific anesthesia plan.
Depending on your needs, available options may include:
- No anesthesia
- Local anesthesia
- Regional nerve block (cervical and uterine)
- Oral anxiolytic medication
- Oral NSAID medication
- Oral narcotic medication
- IM therapies (ketamine, zofran, ketorolac)
We do not offer general anesthesia.
Your physician will discuss the most appropriate comfort measures based on your procedure, medical history, and personal preferences.
Schedule a Consultation
If heavy menstrual bleeding is affecting your quality of life, we can help determine whether endometrial ablation may be an appropriate treatment option.