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An endometrial ablation operation is a procedure to destroy the lining (endometrium) of the womb (uterus). The most common reason for having an endometrial ablation is to get relief from the symptoms of heavy periods. Very heavy menstrual bleeding is also known as menorrhagia.
Endometrial ablation is usually performed by a gynaecological surgeon, also known as a consultant gynaecologist. Many of our experienced gynaecologists specialise in surgery for menorrhagia and related conditions.
If you suffer from heavy periods, endometrial ablation should provide a noticeable reduction in your periods. In some cases, periods stop altogether.
Your consultant may use a NovaSure device, which uses radio frequency energy in a very precisely controlled manner to remove the endometrial tissue lining.
Endometrial ablation starts from £4,700*.
The exact cost of endometrial ablation surgery will depend on a variety of factors, including which hospital and which consultant you choose, as well as how long you need to stay in hospital. Call today to speak to our advisors and get a tailored quote.
Our fixed-price packages include the cost of your surgery and all appropriate aftercare appointments. However, any pre-surgery diagnostic tests and your consultant's outpatient appointment consultation fee are charged separately.
Our flexible payment options help you spread the cost of your payments across a time period that suits you. We offer fixed-term monthly payment plans over 10 months to five years with no deposit required. If you decide to pay over 10 months, you will pay interest-free. If you are paying for a longer period, you will pay 14.9% APR.
If you have private health insurance, endometrial ablation will usually be covered by your provider. Speak to your insurer directly to find out.
*This is a guide price for patients who are paying for their own treatment. The actual cost of your treatment will be confirmed in writing at the time of booking.
Most women who experience heavy menstrual bleeding will see a noticeable reduction in their periods after endometrial ablation surgery. In some cases, periods stop altogether.
An endometrial ablation has fewer potential complications and a quicker recovery time than a hysterectomy, which is another treatment used for heavy periods (menorrhagia). It is considered a minor surgery and can be performed as a day case procedure.
Surgery will never be the first recommendation for treating menorrhagia. Heavy periods can be treated using a variety of non-hormonal and hormonal oral medications. Other alternatives include a hormonal coil that fits in the uterus.
However, non-operative treatments don't work for everyone. If you find that you have tried other non-surgical methods and these have not worked for you, endometrial ablation maybe offered to you as an alternative option. At Circle Health Group, we won't recommend surgery unless we think it's the best option for you. And, even if your consultant does recommend surgery, the final choice is up to you.
There are several ways your consultant gynaecologist can perform the procedure:
Electrical
This treatment involves using a wire loop or roller ball on the lining of the uterus and destroy the endometrial tissue.
Hydrothermal
This method involves using heated fluids which are pumped into the uterus to destroy the womb lining.
Balloon therapy
Your consultant will insert a thin tube or catheter containing a balloon at the end into the uterus. They will then fill this will hot fluid so it becomes a heated balloon which destroys the womb lining.
Radiofrequency (Novasure)
Your consultant will insert a NovaSure device, which uses radio frequency energy in a very precisely controlled manner to destroy the womb lining.
Cryoablation (freezing)
A probe is inserted into the uterus where it is then cooled to a very low temperature so that the endometrial lining can be frozen and destroyed.
Microwave ablation
Your consultant will insert a probe into your uterus. Once in position, microwave energy is passed through the probe to destroy the endometrial lining.
Endometrial ablation surgery is usually performed under a general anaesthetic. The operation typically takes about half an hour.
First, your consultant gynaecologist will pass a thin probe known as a hysteroscope (telescope with operating instruments) through your vagina and cervix into the cavity of your womb and pass fluid through the telescope to swell the womb.
Your consultant will then use electricity or laser energy to remove the lining of the uterus and any polyps or small fibroids they find. They may also choose to use a NovaSure device, which uses radio frequency energy in a very precisely controlled manner.
There are risks associated with any surgery. However, the most common complications following endometrial ablation surgery are relatively minor and can be treated.
Complications can include:
- Pain
- Sickness or feeling sick
- Abnormal uterine bleeding or discharge
- Infection
- Blood clots
There are also some specific early complications of endometrial ablation surgery these include:
- Bleeding during the procedure
- Fluid overload
- Making a hole in the womb
- Failed procedure
Complications following endometrial ablation surgery are rare and our team will do everything they can to reduce the risk. Speak to your surgeon about any worries you have about surgery. They will be able to put your mind at ease.
After undergoing endometrial ablation surgery you should be able to go home the same day.
You should be able to return to normal activities after two to four days. Most people are fit for work after about a week.
You should expect to have some bleeding or discharge for up to six weeks after the operation.
Regular exercise should help you to return to normal activities as soon as possible. Before you start exercising, you should ask a member of the healthcare team or your GP for medical advice.
The operation is not recommended for women who still want children.
However, even if your periods stop, there is still a risk of you becoming pregnant.
If you are considering becoming pregnant or would like to have a baby in the future, speak to your consultant. It may be that another treatment option is more appropriate for you.
When you choose to go private with Circle Health Group, you can expect:
- Flexible appointment times and locations to fit your routine
- The freedom to choose which hospital and Consultant suit your needs
- Personalised, Consultant-led treatment plans tailored to your individual needs
- Comfortable and safe private facilities maintained by expert multidisciplinary teams
- Support by the same compassionate clinical team from beginning to end
- Affordable, fixed-price packages with aftercare included
- Flexible payment options to spread the cost of your care
If you would like to learn more about this procedure, book your appointment online today or call a member of our team directly on 0141 300 5009.
Content reviewed by Circle in-house team in October 2022. Next review due October 2025.
