Endometrial Ablation Specialist

The Association for Women's Health Care

OB/GYNs located in Northbrook, IL & The Loop, Chicago, IL

If you’re experiencing excessive menstrual bleeding, an endometrial ablation may be able to slow or stop the bleeding and associated pain. At The Association for Women’s Healthcare in The Loop in Chicago and Northbrook, Illinois, OB/GYNs have a proven track record in successfully performing endometrial ablations using minimally invasive techniques, which will put an end to your problem.

Endometrial Ablation Q & A

What is an endometrial ablation?

An endometrial ablation is a procedure that destroys the lining of your uterus, called the endometrium, to stop or slow abnormal menstrual bleeding. The goal in using an ablative technique is to cause scarring on the inside of your uterus to prevent excessive bleeding. In some women, periods stop altogether, while in others, period flow will lessen.

Why would I need an endometrial ablation?

The primary goal of an endometrial ablation is to stop or slow heavy vaginal bleeding, which is defined by:

Periods that soak a pad or tampon every two hours
Periods that last longer than eight days
Anemia due to blood loss

Typically, the doctors will try several methods to control your bleeding before resorting to an ablation, such as prescribed medicines, or the use of an intrauterine device (IUD). If these therapies prove unsuccessful, your OB/GYN may recommend an endometrial ablation.

How is an endometrial ablation performed?

There are several techniques for performing an endometrial ablation, all of which are minimally invasive, and are done in your vagina and cervix via small tubes and instruments. At The Association for Women’s Healthcare, two procedures are available: Novasure® and the Genesys HTA System®.

Novasure

Novasure is a one-time, five-minute procedure designed to remove your uterine lining. This procedure includes the following steps:

The doctor inserts a small instrument through your vagina and cervix and extends a triangular-shaped netted device into your uterus
The netting expands to fit the inside of your uterus
Radiofrequency energy is emitted through the netting for 90 seconds
The instrument and netting are removed

Genesys HTA System

Using the Genesys HTA system, the doctor will follow these steps, which take about 10 minutes in total:

Dilate your cervix
Place a sheath inside your cervix.
Pump a saline solution through to fill your uterus
Heat the solution to 194°F
Flush the uterus with a cool saline solution
Remove the sheath

The doctors at The Association for Women’s Healthcare will review all options and help you choose the best one for your situation and comfort level.

Are there risks or side effects associated with an endometrial ablation?

The primary side effect of an endometrial ablation is the loss of the ability to get pregnant. It’s important to note, however, that the ablation doesn’t affect your reproductive organs, so there is a chance you still may become pregnant, but complications will generally prevent you from carrying the child to term.

Other potential risks or side effects are: