Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Endometrial Ablation?
An obstetrician-gynecologist, or ob-gyn, performs endometrial ablation. This is a doctor who cares for the female reproductive system. The surgery may be done in a hospital, an outpatient surgery center, or the provider's office. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Endometrial ablation destroys a thin layer of the lining of the uterus. It does not remove the uterus.
Why a doctor might recommend it
Endometrial ablation treats many causes of heavy menstrual bleeding. Most women with heavy bleeding are treated first with medication. Ablation may be used if medication cannot control the bleeding. It is not used if you may want to become pregnant in the future.
How to prepare
Common preparation steps include the following.
- You will have a biopsy. This tests a small sample of the uterine lining to make sure there is no cancer.
- You may also have a hysteroscopy or an ultrasound to check the size and position of the uterus.
- Tell your provider if you are or could be pregnant. Also list all medicines, supplements, or herbs you take.
- Your provider may ask you to stop blood thinners for a while in the week before.
- Ask your provider which medicines you should still take on the day of surgery.
- Follow instructions about when to stop eating and drinking.
What happens during it
Some techniques are done as outpatient surgery, meaning you can go home the same day. Your cervix may be opened a little before the procedure. Pain relief may be a shot that numbs the cervix, called local anesthesia. You may have general anesthesia at an outpatient surgery center. Then you are not awake. In one method, a probe in the uterus uses radiofrequency energy and heat to destroy the lining.
Recovery
Recovery takes about 2 hours, depending on the type of pain relief used. Cramping like menstrual cramps is common for 1 to 2 days. A thin, watery discharge mixed with blood can last a few weeks. In most cases, you can go back to work or normal activities within a day or two. Ask your ob-gyn when you can exercise, have sex, or use tampons.
Risks and side effects
There is a small risk of infection and bleeding. With some methods, there is a risk of burns to the vagina, vulva, and bowel. Rarely, fluid used in electrosurgery may be absorbed into the bloodstream. This can be serious. After ablation, endometrial cancer can be harder to find in the future. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have bleeding that will not stop, severe belly pain or pressure, trouble breathing, chest pain or discomfort lasting two minutes or more, or fainting.
Who performs it
An ob-gyn does the procedure, either in an outpatient surgery center or in the office.
Common questions
Can I get pregnant after endometrial ablation?
Pregnancy is not likely after ablation, but it can happen. If it does, the risk of miscarriage and other problems is greatly increased. Ob-gyns advise birth control until after menopause.
Who should not have endometrial ablation?
Women who want a future pregnancy should not have it. It should not be done after menopause. It is also not recommended with cancer of the uterus. The same is true for a current or recent pregnancy or a current or recent infection of the uterus.
Do periods stop after endometrial ablation?
Menstrual bleeding does not stop but is reduced to normal or lighter levels. Women who continue to have heavy bleeding may need more surgery.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Endometrial ablation
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists - Endometrial Ablation
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
