Women who have extremely draining menstrual cycles often have to put their lives on hold a few days out of every month. Though they may accept it as a way of life, a procedure called endometrial ablation makes it so it doesn't have to be. While many are unaware of this—and what it could do for them—the knowledgeable professionals at Women's Wellness Center of New York are here to let you know what an endometrial ablation entails and which individuals benefit from it. 

So, what can you expect during an endometrial ablation? Removing the thin layer of lining in the uterus, the procedure attempts to stop or decrease excessive or abnormal bleeding during a woman's menstrual cycle. Depending on the patient, an endometrial ablation may be done as an alternative to a hysterectomy.

There are several techniques that may be used to complete an endometrial ablation, including:

• Electrical: Dissolves the tissue through an electric current that moves up a wire or rollerball. 
• Hydrothermal: Uses high-temperature fluid which is put into the uterus to breakdown the endometrial lining.
• Balloon Therapy: A balloon, which is attached to a catheter is put in the uterus. The balloon is also filled with fluid which is then heated and erodes the tissue.
• Radiofrequency Ablation: To destroy the lining, a triangular mesh electrode is inserted and then expanded to fill the uterine cavity and conducts electricity.
• Cryoablation: Unlike other techniques which utilize elevated heat, this method uses a probe at low temperature to freeze and break down the tissue. 
• Microwave Ablation: Also using a probe, the tool uses microwave energy which is put into the uterus and destroys the endometrial lining.

There are many reasons why someone would be an ideal candidate for an endometrial ablation. Women whose bleeding hasn't been controlled through other medical interventions, plan to have no more children, and cannot or don't want a hysterectomy are all good candidates. Just as it's important to know who would benefit from endometrial ablation, it's also great to be aware of who the procedure isn't for. If you're planning to become or were recently pregnant, experience significant cramping during your menstrual cycle, have uterine cancer, or went through menopause, it is not recommended to undergo an endometrial ablation.

Also providing treatment for pelvic pain and ovarian cysts, Women's Wellness Center of New York is here for you. To receive additional information on their staff and services, view Dr. Tara Shirazian's profile, or call (646) 754-3300 to schedule an appointment today. To stay connected, follow the center on Facebook.