Endometrial ablation

SURGICAL PROCEDURE TO REMOVE A THIN LAYER OF TISSUE (ENDOMETRIUM) THAT LINES THE UTERUS


If you experience heavy menstrual bleeding, our gynaecology surgeons can treat you with endometrial ablation

Enquiries & Appointments

What is an endometrial ablation?

Endometrial ablation is a procedure to treat women who experience heavy periods (menorrhagia).

The endometrium (lining of the womb) is thinned or removed. This can limit or stop menstrual bleeding completely.

The treatment is normally very quick, with no need to stay in hospital overnight.

Need to know

You will be placed under local or general anaesthetic. Your gynaecological surgeon's techniques may vary.

If they are performing a hydrothermal, they'll begin by pumping a fluid into your uterus and heating it. This will remove the endometrium after about 10 minutes. Alternatively, your consultant may guide a small balloon on a tube through your uterus. They will then insert a heated fluid into the balloon to expand and break the endometrium.

In some cases, the endometrium can be frozen off. This is carried out by a very cold tip on a small probe that is passed through the uterus.

Your consultant will explain how best to prepare for endometrial ablation, answering any questions you might have.

Most women are able to return to their normal routine within a week. Other things you may experience in the recovery process include:

  • nausea or an urge to urinate for 24 hours
  • cramping and/or bleeding for a few days
  • watery and/or bloody discharge for up to three weeks

You might be prescribed medicine if you feel any pain. If you experience any severe side effects, you should contact your consultant who can arrange a follow-up appointment

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Our Endometrial ablation locations

The Lister Hospital

The Lister Hospital

Chelsea Bridge Road, SW1W 8RH London
The Portland Hospital

The Portland Hospital

205-209 Great Portland Street W1W 5AH London
The Wellington Hospital

The Wellington Hospital

8A Wellington Place NW8 9LE London
London Bridge Hospital

London Bridge Hospital

27 Tooley Street SE1 2PR London
The Harley Street Clinic

The Harley Street Clinic

35 Weymouth Street W1G 8BJ London
The Princess Grace Hospital

The Princess Grace Hospital

42-52 Nottingham Place W1U 5NY London
The Shard Outpatients

The Shard Outpatients

The Shard, 32 St Thomas Street SE1 9BS London

Patient stories

This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.