4 Decisions to Discuss Before Endometrial Ablation

Ask the clinician to explain what ablation would change for you before scheduling the procedure.

Four decisions for the appointment

1. Does this fit my pregnancy plans? Discuss any uncertainty about having a future pregnancy before proceeding. Ablation permanently changes the lining. Ask which reliable contraceptive method you would use afterward.¹²

2. Have we considered the alternatives? Depending on your assessment, alternatives can include medicines, a hormonal intrauterine system or other surgery. Ask which are suitable, what you have already tried and why ablation is being proposed now.¹

3. What result should I expect? Bleeding may reduce or stop, but ongoing bleeding or new menstrual symptoms can occur. Ask what success would mean in your case and what the plan would be if symptoms continued.²

4. Which pain-control and recovery plan are we choosing? The procedure may use local or general anesthesia, depending on the setting and method. Preparation differs. Get your own directions for medicines, fasting, transport, work and activity before the appointment.²

Keep the aftercare contact available

Seek medical advice for heavy or prolonged bleeding, especially with fever or feeling unwell, or lower abdominal pain that does not ease. The team should explain whom to contact and which symptoms require urgent assessment.²

Write down any question you still have about the consent information. Ask the clinician to go through it before you decide.

Period, Handled lists a Period Scorecard and appointment script. They can help you describe bleeding and its effects when comparing treatments with your clinician. See the book.