The Mayo Clinic explanation of an endometrial ablation is “a procedure that surgically destroys (ablates) the lining of your uterus (endometrium). The goal of endometrial ablation is to reduce menstrual flow. In some women, menstrual flow may stop completely. No incisions are needed for endometrial ablation. Your doctor inserts slender tools through the passageway between your vagina and uterus (cervix).”
NOTE: I AM NOT A MEDICAL DOCTOR SO THIS IS JUST MY STORY. YOU SHOULD CONSULT YOUR GYNAECOLOGIST / MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL ABOUT ANY CONCERNS YOU MIGHT HAVE.
my story
Since having my 2 boys and turning 40 I noticed a huge increase in my period. Not only was it heavier (to the point that I could barely leave the house for 3 days), but I was experiencing clots. It was just horrible.
I made an appointment for my annual gynae check up and discussed this with him when we met. My gynae (Dr Mariunus Cloete) has known me since I fell pregnant with Tristan back in 2015 so knew he’d have my best interests at heart.
what happened next
At my appointment he said that, based on my age and my symptoms he would recommend an endometrial ablation procedure. I went home and did some research and decided I wanted to proceed.
Then Christmas happened, we moved to Fancourt in January and I realised that with our emigration looming I needed to get it done as soon as we could schedule it.
Due to both my gynae’s schedule and mine, the first available time was May. I would fly down to Cape Town in the morning of the procedure and fly back 2 days later.
SURGERY DAY
It was truly a quick procedure; I was in and out of theatre in about 45 minutes. When I woke up I wasn’t in any pain but was quite uncomfortable, it felt like my uterus was too big for my body and very heavy. It also made me feel very nauseous. Luckily I overnighted at the hospital so the nurses were able to administer the necessary medication to make me more comfortable and have a good nights sleep.
The next morning I woke feeling like my old self again. No pain and just slight discomfort. I was discharged by 9am!
some of the main questions I have had
why?
I think I’ve answered that above; my periods had become incredibly heavy.
IS IT A FORM OF CONTRACEPTION
Medically, no. But because there is nothing for an embryo to attach to you can’t fall pregnant.
will you need to have it again or is it a once off procedure?
Due to my age (currently 41 when writing this) I won’t have to have it done again. Generally you’d need to have it repeated after about 8 years, but by the time that time comes around for me I should be in menopause and my body will naturally stop ovulation and the endometrial layer build up.
post op care
When I was discharged, I was given pain killers, anti-inflammatories and mild laxatives. I used the pain meds & anti-inflammatories for the first day post op, but nothing since. Most people report little to no pain so I feel.
There is a bit of discharge for a day or 2 post op, I used a pantyliner for a few days.
I was advised to not have any sexual intercourse for 10 days post op.
who did the procedure?
My gynae in Cape Town. He delivered both my boys, saved my life, uterus and bladder due to placenta accreta with Grayson’s birth. He is the only person I would trust with any of my reproductive system and I’d recommend him to anyone needing a gynae who truly cares for you.
the end
So that, in a nutshell is my experience of an endometrial ablation. If you have any questions please pop me a message, but remember I am not a medical professional so you should always consult medical professionals about your own needs.
Much love xxx