Deep Disease
Is endometrial ablation a good option for adenomyosis?
The short answer
Endometrial ablation often doesn’t resolve adenomyosis-related pain or heavy bleeding because it treats the lining, while adenomyosis lives in the uterine muscle. Some patients feel worse afterward, and it is not appropriate if you want the option of future pregnancy.
Endometrial ablation treats the uterine lining, but adenomyosis is in the uterine muscle. Because the underlying tissue isn’t removed, ablation often doesn’t resolve adenomyosis-related pain or heavy bleeding, and some patients feel worse afterward.
Ablation also isn’t appropriate if you want the option of future pregnancy, since it can make carrying a pregnancy unsafe or unlikely. If you’ve been told ablation is an option, our team can help you confirm whether your symptoms and imaging fit adenomyosis and talk through alternatives that better match your goals and the severity of your symptoms.
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Considering Ablation for Adenomyosis?
Endometrial ablation often doesn’t relieve adenomyosis pain or bleeding and may worsen symptoms. Our specialists can help confirm your diagnosis and explore better treatment options tailored to your needs.
Questions people ask next
All deep disease questionsCan birth control pills or IUDs help endometriosis or adenomyosis?
Yes, birth control pills and the levonorgestrel IUD can help many patients with endometriosis or adenomyosis by reducing heavy bleeding and period-related pelvic pain. They can quiet symptoms during use, but don’t remove endometriosis lesions or reverse adenomyosis.
When is hysterectomy recommended for adenomyosis?
Hysterectomy is typically considered for adenomyosis when severe symptoms come from the uterus and you’re not planning future pregnancy. It is usually weighed most strongly when conservative treatments haven’t provided acceptable relief, aren’t tolerated, or don’t fit your goals.
Is uterine artery embolization (UAE) right for adenomyosis?
UAE can be a good fit for adenomyosis when your goal is symptom relief while preserving the uterus, especially for heavy bleeding. Whether it’s right depends on your symptoms, fertility goals and whether endometriosis is also contributing.
Further reading
Treating Adenomyosis: From IUDs to Surgery Explained
Explore adenomyosis treatment methods including IUDs and surgeries. Learn which approach is best for pain, bleeding, and fertility.
Can the Hormonal IUD Tame Your Adenomyosis Pain and Bleeding?
Discover how the hormonal IUD may alleviate adenomyosis pain and heavy bleeding for better quality of life. Learn about this treatment option now!
UAE or Hysterectomy for Adenomyosis Which Feels Better?
Discover which treatment option, UAE or hysterectomy, may provide better relief for adenomyosis symptoms. Understand your choices today!
