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COMMON GYNAECOLOGICAL PROBLEMSFrom: Fenn (fennmoses@gmail.com)Thu Mar 6 03:04:43 2008
Endometrial ablation is a form of minimally invasive procedure in the treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding. With endometrial ablation, there will be: • An alternative to hysterectomy (removal of uterus). • No hospital stay - Endometrial ablation is an outpatient procedure done in the day surgery. • No incision wound or scarring - Endometrial ablation is done through the normal birth passage and does not require any surgical cuts. • Reduced menstrual bleeding. • Fast recovery with most patients returning to normal activity within two days. During endometrial ablation, the endometrium (menstruating lining of the womb) is destroyed or removed. Hence it is not an option for women who are still considering pregnancy. There are a few methods of endometrial ablation (transcervical resection, microwave ablation, uterine balloon therapy). Your gynaecologist will discuss with you the most appropriate method to treat your problem. Preparing For Endometrial Ablation To improve the results of endometrial ablation, your doctor may treat you with some medication for a few weeks first. Alternatively, the operation can be timed to be done after your menstruation. On the day before your operation, you will be advised to fast overnight. What Happens During Endometrial Ablation? Endometrial ablation is usually done under general anaesthesia. Hence you will be asleep during the operation and will not feel any pain. During the surgery, the endometrium (menstruating lining of the womb) is either surgically removed or destroyed with heat or microwave. The ablation procedure usually takes less than an hour, after which you will be taken to the recovery room for observation. You should recover fully from anaesthesia after an hour or two. After Ablation Discomfort You may feel some mild to moderate cramps in your lower abdomen after surgery. Pain-relief medication will be prescribed to reduce the discomfort. Vaginal Discharge You may experience some vaginal bleeding or watery discharge after the surgery. This can last a couple of weeks, hence do not be too alarmed. In some cases, heavy periods may continue initially but your menstruation will begin to become lighter in the following months. A percentage of patients will not experience any more menstruation. Activities Most patients can return to their normal daily activities in two to three days. Do ensure you have adequate rest. You are advised to abstain from sexual activity until your first follow-up appointment. Do check with your gynaecologist when the best time to resume sexual activity is. Important symptoms to look out for: If you experience the following symptoms, please come to the hospital for an assessment. • Severe abdominal pain • Heavy vaginal bleeding • Fever over 38°C • Shortness of breath
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