Endometrial ablation
What is endometrial ablation surgery? Endometrial ablation surgery treats heavy bleeding by removing the lining of the uterus. This is because if you have significant bleeding every month you may suffer from anaemia as well as affecting your physical and mental health. What happens during endometrial ablation surgery? The surgery is usually carried out under general anaesthetic. Your Con
What it is
Several modalities are available — radiofrequency (NovaSure), thermal balloon, microwave and hydrothermal. NovaSure is the most commonly used in modern UK practice. The procedure is performed under either general or local anaesthetic, with same-day discharge.
Symptoms and signs
- Heavy menstrual bleeding that has failed Mirena IUS, tranexamic acid and other medical therapy.
- Family is complete (ablation is not appropriate if future pregnancy is possible).
- Normal endometrial cavity confirmed on hysteroscopy.
- No suspicious bleeding pattern (post-menopausal, post-coital, intermenstrual — these need investigation first).
- Willing to accept that 5–10% of patients require a second procedure or hysterectomy later.
How we investigate
Pelvic ultrasound, outpatient hysteroscopy to confirm a normal cavity, endometrial biopsy where abnormal bleeding pattern, pregnancy test on the day.
Treatment options at The Vesey
- Endometrial ablation — typically NovaSure radiofrequency, 5–10 minute treatment.
- Mirena IUS — often considered alongside or before ablation; many women prefer the IUS option.
- Hysterectomy — definitive alternative for women who prefer a one-and-done solution.
- Outpatient hysteroscopic polypectomy or myomectomy if cavity-distorting pathology is found.
- Effective sterilisation alongside — ablation is not a sterilisation procedure; contraception is still required.
Will endometrial ablation stop my periods completely? +
About 30% of women have no periods after NovaSure radiofrequency ablation, 50% have very light periods, and 20% have some ongoing bleeding. Results vary by individual.
Can I become pregnant after endometrial ablation? +
Pregnancy after ablation is rare but not impossible, and very high-risk. Reliable long-term contraception is essential after the procedure. Ablation is only appropriate for women whose family is complete.
How long is recovery after endometrial ablation? +
Most women return to desk work within 2–3 days. Some cramping and watery discharge is normal for 2–4 weeks after the procedure.
How does endometrial ablation differ from a hysterectomy? +
Ablation destroys the uterine lining and leaves the uterus in place; it is a day-case procedure with a much shorter recovery than hysterectomy, but it is not guaranteed to stop bleeding permanently. Around 5–10% of women require a further procedure later.
Pricing at a glance
Initial gynaecology consultation £260 · Endometrial ablation under local anaesthetic from £2,400 · Day-case under general anaesthetic from £3,400. Insurance accepted: BUPA, Vitality, AXA, WPA, Cigna, Aviva, Healix.
Book an appointment
When to see a specialist
Book if you have heavy periods that have not responded to medication, your family is complete, and you want an alternative to hysterectomy.
Cost and pathway
Initial gynaecology consultation £260. Endometrial ablation under local anaesthetic from £2,400 all-inclusive. Day-case under general anaesthetic from £3,400.
- Open 7 days including Sundays — 8am to 8pm, no weekend surcharge
- No GP referral required — book directly with our gynaecology team
- Sutton Coldfield location — serving Birmingham, Walsall, Tamworth, Lichfield and the West Midlands
- CQC-regulated — rated 4.87/5 on Doctify from 700+ verified reviews
View our gynaecology services →
Sutton Coldfield · Birmingham · Walsall · Tamworth · Lichfield · West Midlands · Open 7 days 8am–8pm
Open 7 days · 8am–8pm · 0121 387 3727