Endometrial Ablation

Endometrial ablation- a procedure that annihilates the lining of the uterus with the purpose of reducing the menstrual flow. This procedure is performed to treat unusual menstrual bleeding. In some cases, hysteroscope is used to see inside the uterus. Few methods by which Endometrial ablation can be done are listed below:

Endometrial ablation using laser beams.
Radiofrequency.
Thermal balloon ablation.
Heated free fluid.
Microwave.

Endometrial ablation may be performed in an outpatient facility or a gynecologist’s clinic. The procedure may last up to 45 minutes. The gynecologist may use local, spinal or in some cases general anesthesia.

Why it is done

Endometrial ablation is the only option for a woman suffering from heavy, extended vaginal bleeding due to reasons such as:

Bleeding was unresponsive to other treatments.
You prefer not to have a hysterectomy.
Other medical issues that prevent a hysterectomy.

Endometrial ablation is not suggested for woman who:

Wish to have babies in future.
Have massive cramping and pain during periods.
Have Uterus cancer.
Have achieved menopause.
Risks Involved

There are some risks involved in endometrial ablation process including:

An injury to the uterine wall from surgical instruments.
Thermal injury to the uterus.
Cervical laceration (Tearing of the opening of the uterus).
Enormous pain, bleeding or infection.

Is it worth?

Post endometrial ablation, most women experience less menstrual flow. Older women are likely to respond well to endometrial ablation as compared with younger women. After an endometrial ablation, younger women are likely to have periods and may require a repeat procedure.

What after surgery

Side effects such as cramping, nausea, vaginal discharge mixed with blood are bound to happen. The discharge may last around 1 to 2 weeks, but will become clear after a couple of days. Usually, the patient is discharged the same day. It may take few days to 2 weeks to recuperate.

Ectopic Pregnancy

Ectopic pregnancy is a complication of pregnancy in which pregnancy happens outside the uterus. Also known as eccysis or tubal pregnancies, these type of pregnancies possess life threatening risks to the mother and fetus. Most of the ectopic pregnancies happen in the Fallopian tube, but can also occur in the cervix, ovaries and abdomen. If not treated properly, ectopic pregnancy can even lead to death.

Symptoms

Abnormal vaginal bleeding.
Lower back pain.
Cramps on one side of the pelvis.
Absent menses.
Nausea and puking.
Weakness or faintness.
Low blood pressure.
Pain in the shoulder and lower abdomen.

Causes

One major cause of ectopic pregnancy is a damaged fallopian tube that doesn't allow a fertilized egg to enter the uterus, so it embeds in the fallopian tube.

It happens mainly because of the following reasons:

Birth defect in the fallopian tubes.
Previous experience of ectopic pregnancy.
Scarring from the past infection.
Endometriosis.
You are at high risk of getting an ectopic pregnancy if you are:

Over 35 years.
Having sexually transmitted disease like chlamydia and gonorrhea.
Getting pregnant while using an intrauterine device (IUD), a form of birth control.
Having multiple sexual partners.
Having infertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF)

Treatment

Your gynecologist will perform a pelvic examination, pregnancy test and an ultrasound to view the condition of uterus and fallopian tubes. If ectopic pregnancy is detected, your gynecologist will decide on the best treatment based on your medical condition. If the doctor suspects that fallopian tube is ruptured, surgery may be done to stop blood loss. Surgery may also be performed to repair any damaged tissue or remove the abnormal pregnancy. In certain cases, the doctor may opt to remove the fallopian tube.