Endometrial Ablation - a Personal Experience

Being female, most of us have problems with our reproductive system at some point during our lives. Most often these are normal of the natural aging process, however sometimes there can be the odd hiccup - and living in a world where such diseases as Cervical cancer are well documented and unfortunately common, it pays to be certain of your health.

My story began a couple of years after the birth of my daughter. It was a textbook pregnancy, and I had looked forward to the birth, telling myself that millions before me had done what comes natural. The birth was something else all together though - but that is another story!

I began to encounter what is termed as inter-menstrual bleeding, just a few sluggish spots each month, no pain, mostly just an annoyance. Months later it had become almost like having a second menstruation in the monthly cycle. I was anemic and constantly lacking in energy.

My doctor took a swab and a smear/pap test (come on girls - it's a simple and painless procedure - check you modesty at the door) and tested for common STD's. Being happily married, I was mortified, but this is common practice and helps eliminate certain other causes, and when the Doctor explained this, I relaxed somewhat. Eventually everything checked out fine. However, inter-menstrual bleeding usually indicates an irritation of the uterine lining.

I was then scheduled for a D & C (Dilation & Curette) where by the Specialist uses an instrument called a curette to remove the endometrium or lining of the uterus, which is usually performed under general anesthetic. In most cases the Specialist will also examine the uterus with a tiny telescopic instrument called a Hysteroscope.