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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staffA procedure called endometrial ablation destroys the endometrium — the lining of your uterus — with the goal of reducing your menstrual flow. In some women, menstrual flow may stop completely. No incisions are needed for endometrial ablation. Your doctor inserts slender tools through your cervix — the passageway between your vagina and your uterus.
The tools vary, depending on the method used to destroy the endometrium. Some types of endometrial ablation use extreme cold, while other varieties depend on heated fluids, microwave energy or high-energy radiofrequencies.
Some types of endometrial ablation can be done in your doctor's office, while others must be performed in an operating room. Factors such as the size and condition of your uterus will help determine which endometrial ablation method is most appropriate.
- Frequently asked questions. Special procedures FAQ134. Endometrial ablation. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. http://www.acog.org/~/media/25741BBE1E6F447F91C89B8BEF9505F8.ashx. Accessed Sept. 4, 2012.
- Sharp HT. An overview of endometrial ablation. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed Sept. 4, 2012.
- Fothergill RE. Endometrial ablation in the office setting. Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America. 2008;35:317.
- Zacur HA. Chronic menorrhagia or anovulatory uterine bleeding. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed Sept. 4, 2012.
- Lentz GM, et al. Comprehensive Gynecology. 6th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Mosby Elsevier; 2012. http://www.mdconsult.com/books/linkTo?type=bookPage&isbn=978-0-323-06986-1&eid=4-u1.0-B978-0-323-06986-1..C2009-0-48752-X--TOP. Accessed Sept. 4, 2012.
- Sharp HT. Endometrial ablation: Non-resectoscopic techniques. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed Sept. 5, 2012.
- Hopkins MR (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Sept. 28, 2012.
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