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Uterine ablation or hysterectomy?

By Caria CommunityPublished 14 November 20201 min read

I’ve been having horrible, unpredictable bleeding for the past 18 months along with many of the other joys that accompany perimenopause to the extent that I am anemic requiring iron infusions and even a couple transfusions. My GYN is recommending uterine ablation and I’m wondering what others experience and advice others may have about this procedure or any alternatives. I have no need to keep my uterus so my thinking is why not just have a partial hysterectomy.– Nanook, Charleston

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Community comments

55

Real experiences shared by the community, from the original discussion to today.

  • Tracey5 years ago

    I had a similar experience, but without the transfusions. I had the uterine ablation several years ago and it was very successful. The bleeding stopped straight away and I felt much better. There is always an option for a hysterectomy, but it is a much more invasive procedure and a longer healing process.

  • Maria - Ireland5 years ago

    Hi. I wouldn’t recommend an ablation but suggest you ask about a uterine artery embolisation. Involved procedure but was life changing for me. Maria

  • KM5 years ago

    I was in the same boat. Those were my choices as well. I was in my early forties. I had a partial hysterectomy and have never been sorry a single day since. I can’t speak to the ablation, but the choice between cooking my uterus and removing it seemed simple to me.

  • MJ5 years ago

    I was on the pill and still had heavy bleeding. I started off managing it by having 3 months on the pill without a break then breaking for a week during which I took tranexamic acid to reduce the flow. Eventually I was diagnosed with fibroids (or rather, fibroid, the size of a small melon). I was offered ablation, hysterectomy or the Mirena coil. Bring on the pill I couldn’t see what the coil could bring to the party; I researched ablation and found that fibroids could come back. I decided that, since my family was complete at 39, I could do without my womb and opted for a partial hysterectomy, leaving my ovaries as they were ok. This 16 years ago and I’ve bever regretted my decision for a moment.

  • Candice5 years ago

    I experienced extremely heavy bleeding with very large clots. I tried all the hormone methods - pill, iud, injections. The rest of the women on my family have all ended up with hysterectomies. I was offered and took ablation at 40 years old, told there was a reduced chance of success because I was under 45 (75-80%). I was also sterilised at the same time. It worked brilliantly and my periods stopped altogether. At my 6 month check up the doctor told me if my periods hadn’t come back within a year they most likely wouldn’t. They came back after 18 months but so much lighter. Now I’ve hit peri-menopause and they’ve started to wander from my normal 24 day cycle but they’re still really light.

  • Han5 years ago

    I had an uterine ablation then 2 years later a total hysterectomy ...wish I had neither. The ablation was a total waste of time light periods but the pain was awful. So I had a hysterectomy,well I’m 47 and feel 57 is the only way I can describe it

    • DEE5 years ago

      Sorry to hear of your issues doctors really miss out on telling you the finer but important side effects the operation has .. the main one they missed out was the fact you are potentially be going into the menopause !HRT should be easily given by your Gp certainly before the age of 55 and especially to help you cope after a full hysterectomy ...it makes such a HUGE difference to how you feel and cope with the after effects! keep at the doc to get them to help you !! Hope you feel better soon x

  • Jacqui Doll5 years ago

    I have had a partial hysterectomy. For the first 3 years I felt amazing the best I had felt in years. Then boom my symptoms hit me hard The anxiety and brain fog was overwhelming. I have a great friend and we have been getting thru this together.

  • Elizabeth5 years ago

    I had the endometrial ablation procedure two years ago (at the age of 39) and honestly, I didn’t seem to help too much. I still get a heavy period and now feel anemic and lightheaded when I start my period.

  • Carla5 years ago

    Sorry to hear about your experience. It is so difficult to deal with. I experienced this and had the ablation, it was a quick procedure with minimal pain and it really changed my life. No more heavy bleeding, no more worrying about which clothing I have to wear. For me it was amazing. Take care x

    • Kim5 years ago

      I also had a uterine ablation. It was the best thing I have ever done. No more periods or pain . I would recommend for sure.

    • Bamreplying to Kim5 years ago

      I had ablation. The best thing I could’ve ever done. Kept my other parts. Quick healing. Wouldn’t change a thing. Now in menopause-//the “everything list” is crazy

    • Maryreplying to Kim5 years ago

      My endometrial ablation a few years ago made a huge difference to my life and I have never regretted it. My nightmare continuous flooding periods have stopped entirely and I am so grateful. I would do it again without hesitation.

  • Jo5 years ago

    Following around 2 years of one week on, one week off and heavy bleeds I had I coil fitted for the third time, and the third time ended up in extreme agony - this time in A&E begging for it to be removed. The gynae explained my body had rejected it and was trying to expel it so I was basically having contractions and trying to birth it! I was then offered ablation which was extremely successful and I’ve never had any bleeding at all since. I was told it was all part of a process with hysterectomy as last option.

  • Natasha5 years ago

    I had an ablation 2 years ago and it really helped, no blood since

  • Ann5 years ago

    hi all. they tried the ablation when i was 39 but my womb was too small to proceed. lots of bleeding for following 2 days - much more than my usual daily amount. then had part hysterectomy at 40. first 2 years were amazing. now (49) i regret not having the lot ripped out.

  • Laura5 years ago

    Go for the hysterectomy best thing I ever did, I had 5lb. Uterine fibroid. I was in constant pain and constantly bleeding. Worth the recovery time for a whole new lease on life

  • DEE5 years ago

    Hi at 35 and after numerous operations due to endometriosis ;I eventually developed fibroids ( with all the pain, heavy bleeding ,clots and floods it entails) so ,on the advice of my gynaecologist , I opted for a full hysterectomy! I have ovarian cancer in my family hence it was full! I had also tried and failed numerous IVF treatments so I didn’t need a womb Unfortunately ,like so many other women, i was not told the fine but very important details of the after effects this full hysterectomy would have!! After my total hysterectomy op It took nearly 3-4 year and many trips back and forth to the gynaecologist to help me settle on the correct HRT level and treatment I felt great for the first time In years and thoroughly enjoyed my late 30’s/40 and most of my 50’s ...Would I Recommend a total hysterectomy for someone like me ? ?if I had foresight and knew I needed to start up a conversation which involved getting HRT as soon as possible after the operation ,yes ,I think I would. But Unlike me and if you don’t have ovarian cancer in your family, then I would strongly recommend leaving at least one ovary in ...simply to stop that hormonal “jump of the cliff after the total hysterectomy op “just remember, by taking HRT it Only postpones the menopause, you will still get it ...so when your doc says at 55 ( grrr) “right, the time has come ...you need to come off the HRT treatment” ... you come down with a hefty hormonal thump... having no ovaries means there is NO easing down through the hormonal stages .SO NOW I have found at the ripe old age of 62 , and for the last 8 EXTREMELY HARD YEARS!! I am still suffering severe menopausal symptoms.. from Excessive and severe day and night sweats, , dryness ,fatigue , insomnia, aches in all my joints , osteoporosis.. blah blah blah! Have I learned any thing from all this decision of mine?‍♀️and what advice can I give you... take the offer of an ablation ?‍♀️ Hang on to your functioning hormonal system for as long as you can,what have you got to lose! If it doesn’t work ,sure have the hysterectomy, but leave an ovary in.... if you can .... and if you can’t ..? try and come back as a man in the next life?? Hope you can get to a decision that suits you ❤️

  • Hobnob5 years ago

    I had an ablation after numerous embarrassing flooding episodes. In at 8 done at 10 home by 2. Would have been sooner but hubby was working and because of the general they would not let me drive. Glad I took the option of pain relief pessery inserted at the time so not embarrassing. Like bad period pain for a day or so. Never had a period since.

    • Jugs4 years ago

      Wish I had a general! Just gas and air for me and hurt like hell

  • Ax5 years ago

    Hi, I had a uterine artery embolisation for fibroids last year, which went well but had no effect whatsoever - things got worse and when I had a hysterectomy twelve weeks ago they found loads more fibroids than originally thought. Hysterectomy recovery was wonderful, almost immediately iron went to normal and I am so glad it’s done. Had oopherectomy too which was annoying as now in surgical menopause but hysterectomy - highly recommend!

  • NachoMama5 years ago

    I had an endometrial ablation in 2015 along with tubal ligation. No issues and healing time was minimal (about three days of taking it easy). Minimally invasive and outpatient. My experience was a good one and I haven’t had a period since then. Hope this helps.

    • Christi1 year ago

      Do you still have the symptoms of menopause/low estrogen?

  • TD5 years ago

    I am 54 and had an ablation around 12 years ago. I never had issues since. Best decision I ever made.

  • Carla5 years ago

    I had an ablation to stop the heavy bleeding. Two tampons at the same time and a pad. An hour later I was running for the bathroom. After ablation the pain came back unbareable as well as the bleeding. They would only give me Motrin 800 mg. It was not strong enough at all and offered nothing stronger. Had a hysterectomy three years ago and it changed my life. Diagnosed with adenomyosis and removed 5 lbs fibroid. Threw out my black cotton panties and my emergency period stash everywhere. Kept my ovaries but still moved into menopause at 48. Hope this helps.

  • Flower5 years ago

    I had an ablation years ago for endometriosis. Unfortunately it only half worked, made the periods tolerable rather than pass out on the floor painful. I worked for urologists and we saw a lot of patients needing a bladder sling after a hysterectomy, so something to keep in mind.

  • Lwright5 years ago

    I had this done 6 years ago and have had a good experience. No periods or random bleeding since. For my own experience it saved me from heavy bleeding for days and extremely low iron.

  • Rachel5 years ago

    I had an ablation done nearly 8 years ago I’m now 53. Haven’t bled since very successful. Over in minutes and I stayed awake throughout. No pain relief bit of gas and air. It was painful tho but short lived. I’d say have it done but it’s not for everyone

    • Gina4 years ago

      I’m now 53 and have been suffering such bad heavy periods for probably more than the last 8 years! Maybe they’ll give me an ablation if I ask nicely? Am mid-appointment from hospital to GP to back again. I’d like to have a face to face appointment with the gynaecologist but that seems to be impossible since Covid!

  • dee5 years ago

    Ablation was the answer for me too , best thing I ever did.

  • Beta5 years ago

    I have had friends get the ablation and felt kinda normal for 3-4 months but then went right back to where they were and they ended up with a hysterectomy. I personally have been offered this same procedure to help with my heavy periods. If I do anything, I will go straight for the hysterectomy, as long as I do not need the other procedures to progress to insurance covering hysterectomy. I’ve already had several ultrasounds that have showed nothing. I can’t do the HRT because of familial history of breastfeeding cancer and I won’t do the d/c or ablation to get 3 months or “ok” period at age 53.

  • Esp5 years ago

    I was diagnosed with several fibroids attached to my uterus in 2014 and didn't do anything as I was told fibroids were normal and shouldn't risk major surgery (hysterectomy). Fast forward several years later and a routine check blood draw showed I was suffering from severe anemia caused by growing fibroids and where they were attached to my uterus. I needed iron infusions as well. Since I was living in another country it was not recommended get a surgery there. Instead, I was given a Zolodex shot to stop my periods until I was able to get back to the states for surgery. I am 3 days post op (extremely painful coming out of it) and I'm glad to be rid of the fibroids. My ovaries were left intact as I am not quite ready to instantly hit menopause.

  • Amy5 years ago

    I had uterine ablation and it worked great! Hardly any bleeding every month.

  • Cici5 years ago

    I had a partial hysterectomy in 2004 and I’m just now starting to experience menopausal symptoms. But they have all hit me at once. Still looking for some symptom relief.

  • 2CHMOM5 years ago

    I had very heavy periods after my daughter was born (I had her at age 35), after almost 3 years of being on the pill (which did not help), I had a D&C with heat ablation and it was the best thing I ever did in terms of my periods. I went from heavy bleeding (using a super plus tampon AND an overnight super plus pad - which at times I STILL bled through......to having very light spotting and some months no spotting at all). It gave me the much needed relief I desperately needed.

  • Nicole5 years ago

    I had this done years ago for the same symptoms. Best thing I ever did!! I went to veryyyy light cycles after if anything at all. WORTH IT.

  • Jaimme5 years ago

    I had an ablation last year to help with heavy periods that caused anemia. The procedure went perfectly and I no longer bleed! It is like a miracle after decades of heavy blood loss!! I still have PMS and all the fun hormonal things that happen every month, but that’s more tolerable now that I don’t have to worry about blood loss fatigue. I’m 44 and have had perimenopausal symptoms for years now.

  • Dee5 years ago

    Had it done. Lasted a while but now I am trying to get a hysterectomy.

  • DeAnn5 years ago

    I was about 40 and had the very same issues. Heavy and frequent bleeding. I didn’t have fibroids or any other issues other than some scar tissue from having a ovarian cyst removed. I opted for the ablation and it changed my life. Periods stopped but hormones were intact. So I had no side effects. It was simple procedure. One day of rest and back to my normal routine. My doc said 70% of ablation cases had tissue grow back and experienced periods again but not at the same severity. And if it did, I could do it again. But I never had another period. The only drawback is when I’m asked when my last period was. Ummm…like 15 years ago. I know it’s miserable. I hope you find the relief you need.

  • SS5 years ago

    Hi, I am 46 and faced the same decision two years ago. On top of needing an ablation, I also wanted to be sterilised, and opted to have the fallopian tubes removed (cancer risk in family and I was informed many cases of ovarian cancer start in the tubes). All in a partial hysterectomy (leaving the ovaries) was the best solution for me. It was a big decision and big step, but the best thing I've ever done! Freedom from the heavy bleeding, pelvic infections and contraception all in one. Having said that, I had access to fantastic medical care and great support at home. And yes it seems as if it may have triggered perimenopause, though that could be down to my age too. All the best.

  • Yolonda4 years ago

    I would like to know more about women that has had a hysterectomy?

  • Tree4 years ago

    I had ablation about 15 years ago which stopped my periods straight away and never had one since. I still have the monthly symptoms occasionally which I don’t mind I can cope but the only thing I found was after the procedure it left me with a bloated stomach and I look six months pregnant all the time. I’m coming up to 59 now and have been having menopausal symptoms since the ablation I wondering how long these symptoms will go on for it really drags me down. My mom is 83 and is still having the hot flushes and night sweats. Do these symptoms ever end?

  • Reasy4 years ago

    I too had the most horrific very heavy bleeds almost every 2 weeks and just felt my quality of life suffered so much As the cramps and accompanying upset stomachs became so bad I got to the stage I couldn’t function. In the end I was referred for an ablation and wow what a difference this made to my life I haven’t had any more bleeding at all and coupled with the fact the recovery was really very quick felt normal after 2 weeks for me this was so life changing and gave me a whole new lease of life. Yes I’m most likely In menopause now due to symptoms that I have on daily basis hot flushes stomach issues joint pains etc but at least I know I don’t have to worry about having unexpected heavy bleeds anymore

  • Lesley4 years ago

    I had a large fibroid & partial hysterectomy. Kept ovaries. Still get monthly cycle symptoms just no bleeding. Took 1 yr for body to adjust after Hysto. Terrible burning bones for few months as hormones freaked out. But I'm pleased I kept ovaries. Even a Partial Hysto is very hard on body. Abalation preferable then partial Hysto then full Hysto if u absolutely hv to All the best x

  • Dana4 years ago

    Had ablation 15 years ago. I was in my 30s. Needed to have my thickened uterine lining thinned by D&C first. Thinning with D&C or the pill can help with the success of ablation. Still had very light period lasting only 3 days for years and then cycles ended 3 years later. (Not due to menopause) This was an improvement from 10 day soaking periods (wore tampons and pads and bled through both in an hour many days. Spotted all but 7 days a month) I was required to have my tubes tied at the time since pregnancy after ablation can lead to fetal and maternal complications and possible death. There’s a quick recovery after ablation. After uterine removal some have said their peri started within 5 years. So I’d do research to see if there’s possible quicker menopause. If you think you will ever take hrt you would only be required to take estrogen if you have no uterus. There is no increase risk of BC with estrogen alone… it’s when progesterone is added. (Even then the risk is 8 per 10,000 individuals.) I’d research the future decisions you may need to make in the future. Good luck

  • Gina4 years ago

    Hi Nanook. I took a lot of comfort from reading these tales last week. I had my ablation operation 2 Wednesdays ago. I read through here and was congratulating myself on having made such a brave decision to have what would most definitely be a success! Anyway one Wednesday later and I landed back in hospital again after 3 full days of heavy bleeding with many clots. The female consultant who had carried out the ablation had promised me it would last (!) and with reading 19 out of 20 success stories on here I was so sure it would work too. But it didn’t sadly and when I went back to see her (on Wednesday) she told me that for some reason she had an intuition that it would not work for me. I’m now prescribed progesterone for 3 months 3 tablets a day to stop the bleeding (it still hasn’t stopped) and am awaiting discussion (3 months time) about going on the waiting list for a hysterectomy. So in my experience I would just cut out the ablation because unfortunately for me it didn’t work at all. Makes me so sad and angry after all the mental investment and hope for a brighter future.

  • Crystal3 years ago

    The ablation has worked for me. It was completely painless and I haven’t bled since.

  • Pot bellied laugh lady3 years ago

    My ablation was a disaster. Please understand this was MY experience and a one off. I was just starting off with a UTI and despite my attempt at saying “erm excuse me I am starting a UTI” a UV antibiotic drip wasn’t administered for the op. I was getting sterilised also as my beloved coil from choice of contraception my whole adult life wouldn’t work. Long story short I was introduced with bacteria in the bloodstream and my body, part 2

  • Pot bellied laugh lady3 years ago

    I had two life threatening bacterias I won’t name that I had to fight for my life, basically. Pass a week or so and I’m out of the woods, I contract and labour for hours unusually and deliver the bundle of congealed bacteria vaginally. The bacteria in the blood was treated from an IV. The bacteria I gave birth to has vividly effected me for life. Part 3

  • Pot bellied laugh lady3 years ago

    This is one in ten thousand million chances to happen in an ablation, would I have another NO. Im saying if you think something is wrong SPEAK UP. I fought for my life. It could’ve been any surgery on anybody. Just ask questions and challenge. I named the alien bacteria and wrapped it up and buried it. Surreal

  • Gigi2 years ago

    I had an ablation back in 2013 at 36. I had a thick uterine lining so it lightened my periods but didn’t totally make them go away. I would have about 3 days of very light bleeding. I had a Mirena inserted in 2021 at 43 and within two months l had no bleeding at all. I’m 46 now and still have not had any period/bleeding since the insertion. I’m in peri now with hair loss being the first symptom that started around 2018. Now I have daily hot flashes, brain fog, anxiety and sense of doom. Doc wants me to try OTC supplements like black cohosh first ? before any hormone therapy.

  • Erin2 years ago

    I am 52. About six months or so ago I thought I was at the end. The periods I were getting were skipping months. Recently, it has started up again And the periods are pretty heavy. I am tired of it and I’m going to see my doctor next week about getting an ablation. A couple people I know have had it and said it was the best choice they made. Has anyone heard of getting an ablation at this age or is it better to get it done under 50?

  • Rachel2 years ago

    I’m so sorry that you’re navigating a time of unexpected bleeding woes. I’ve been there, done that, and got the blood stained pants to prove it. I was a victim of a sneaky fibroid that decided the inner walls of my uterus would make the perfect home. Have you considered getting checked for those pesky fibroids? Just a thought, but it might be worth exploring before you resort to the ultimate solution. Wishing you a smooth ride ahead.

  • Lori C1 year ago

    I had an ablation as well. I am 48 and have been questioning certain symptoms I have been having, namely hot flashes (face only), night sweats, and excruciating headaches. I started with some brain fog about 6 mo ago. I chalked it up to stress at work and ADHD. I've intentionally lost 50lbs in the last year. I went from being hot all the time to cold all the time after losing weight. So when I started this summer with waking up sweated to death at night, I chalked it up to extra blankets due to always being cold. Lately (last month or so) I've noticed my face getting real hot and the headaches. Oh the headaches. Anytime of the day or night, I've even been woke up with a splitting headache. I've also felt that I smell like sweaty gym socks more lol. As embarrassing as it is, I'm a family nurse practitioner and the thought of menopause didn't even come to mind at all until this weekend. I'm struggling as to how I will know for sure, as I do not get periods due to my ablation. I know that symptoms are a big part of the equation and my symptoms are on point, but like many patients, I wish I had a formal diagnosis to ease my mind. Any tips? I'm really struggling with the thought of this, maybe it's because I'm realizing I'm getting older.

  • Anonymous1 year ago

    Had mine at the age of 44. Now 50 and don’t regret it at all! One of the best decisions I’ve made actually, I say go for it!

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