Our Summary

This study looked at the risk of developing a type of cancer called endometrial cancer in women who underwent a specific procedure for heavy menstrual periods, known as endometrial ablation or resection (EA/R). The researchers looked back at the medical records of women who had this procedure at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary between 1990 and 1997, and then followed up with them until 2015. They compared the number of women who developed endometrial cancer after the procedure to the number of cases that would be expected in the general population of similar age in northeast Scotland.

The study found that out of 901 women who had the EA/R procedure, only 2 (or 0.2%) developed endometrial cancer. This rate is significantly lower than what would be expected in the general population. Therefore, the study concluded that having an EA/R procedure could significantly reduce a woman’s risk of developing endometrial cancer, although it doesn’t completely eliminate the risk.

FAQs

  1. What is the risk of developing endometrial cancer after undergoing an endometrial ablation or resection (EA/R)?
  2. How does the rate of endometrial cancer in women who have undergone the EA/R procedure compare to that of the general population?
  3. Does having an EA/R procedure completely eliminate the risk of developing endometrial cancer?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about endometrial ablation is to follow up regularly with their healthcare provider for routine check-ups and screenings to monitor for any potential complications or changes in their health. It is also important for patients to continue to practice good overall health habits, such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, and avoiding smoking, as these factors can help reduce the risk of developing endometrial cancer or other health issues.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended endometrial ablation are those who have heavy menstrual bleeding that has not responded to other treatments such as medication or hormonal therapy. It is also recommended for women who have completed their childbearing and do not wish to have any more children. Endometrial ablation is not recommended for women who have certain medical conditions such as uterine cancer, pelvic inflammatory disease, or current pregnancy. It is important for patients to discuss their medical history and potential risks with their healthcare provider before undergoing endometrial ablation.

Timeline

Before endometrial ablation:

  • Patient experiences heavy menstrual bleeding or irregular periods
  • Patient undergoes a consultation with a healthcare provider to discuss treatment options
  • Patient may undergo tests such as ultrasound or biopsy to determine the cause of the abnormal bleeding
  • If endometrial ablation is deemed appropriate, the procedure is scheduled

After endometrial ablation:

  • Patient may experience cramping or discomfort for a few days after the procedure
  • Patient may have light spotting or discharge for a few weeks
  • Patient is advised to avoid strenuous activities and sexual intercourse for a period of time
  • Patient follows up with their healthcare provider for post-procedure care and monitoring
  • Patient may experience a significant reduction in menstrual bleeding or complete cessation of periods
  • Patient may have a lower risk of developing endometrial cancer compared to the general population

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and side effects of endometrial ablation?
  2. How long does the procedure take and what is the recovery time?
  3. Will I still be able to have children after undergoing endometrial ablation?
  4. Are there any long-term effects or complications associated with endometrial ablation?
  5. How effective is endometrial ablation in reducing heavy menstrual bleeding?
  6. Will I still need to use birth control after the procedure?
  7. Are there any lifestyle changes or restrictions I should follow after undergoing endometrial ablation?
  8. How frequently will I need to follow up with you after the procedure?
  9. What are the chances of developing endometrial cancer after undergoing endometrial ablation?
  10. Are there any alternative treatments or options available for managing heavy menstrual bleeding that I should consider before opting for endometrial ablation?

Reference

Authors: Kalampokas E, McRobbie S, Payne F, Parkin DE. Journal: Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2018 Jul;142(1):84-90. doi: 10.1002/ijgo.12503. Epub 2018 Apr 20. PMID: 29637560