Table of Contents

What causes pelvic pain in women?
When should I seek medical help for pelvic pain?
How is the cause of pelvic pain diagnosed?
What are the treatment options for pelvic pain?
Are there therapies for managing pelvic pain?
What is endometrial ablation?
Who is a candidate for endometrial ablation?
How is endometrial ablation performed?
What are the risks associated with endometrial ablation?
What results can be expected from an endometrial ablation?
What kind of endometrial ablation do we use at Epiphany?

What causes pelvic pain in women?

Pelvic pain can be caused by a range of conditions, including:

● Endometriosis
● Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
● Ovarian cysts
● Uterine fibroidsIrritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
● Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Identifying the exact cause is essential for determining the most effective treatment approach.

When should I seek medical help for pelvic pain?

You should consult a healthcare provider if your pelvic pain affects your quality of life. Women often feel as though they should just “tough it out”. If your life is negatively affected by your pelvic pain, then you deserve to be evaluated and treated.

How is the cause of pelvic pain diagnosed?

Diagnosing the cause of pelvic pain typically involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and may include:

● Pelvic ultrasound
● Laparoscopy
● MRI scans
● Urine, blood, and possibly stool tests

These diagnostic tools help healthcare providers determine the underlying cause of pain and guide treatment decisions.

What are the treatment options for pelvic pain?

Treatment for pelvic pain depends on its cause, severity, and impact on the woman’s life. Options may include:

Medication: Pain relievers, hormonal therapies, and antibiotics can be used depending on the condition causing the pain.

Physical therapy: Techniques such as pelvic floor physical therapy can alleviate pain by addressing muscle tension or weakness.

Surgery: In some cases, such as for severe endometriosis or uterine fibroids, surgery may be necessary to remove the source of pain.

Lifestyle modifications: Diet changes, stress management, and regular physical activity can also help manage certain types of pelvic pain.‍

Are there therapies for managing pelvic pain?

Some women find relief from alternative therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, and herbal supplements. However, the effectiveness of these treatments can vary, and it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before trying alternative therapies to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your specific condition.

Sometimes pelvic pain is related to a woman’s menstrual cycle and irregular bleeding. In some cases, we use endometrial ablation to help women with pelvic pain. It is important to discuss this treatment plan with a healthcare provider. 

What is endometrial ablation?

Endometrial ablation represents a significant advancement in the treatment of abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB). Aimed at reducing or completely stopping menstrual flow, this minimally invasive procedure targets the endometrium, or the lining of the uterus, which is responsible for menstrual bleeding.

Endometrial ablation involves the removal or destruction of the endometrium. It's primarily recommended for women who suffer from heavy menstrual bleeding who haven't responded to other treatments. The procedure is varied, employing several techniques such as laser energy, heat (thermal ablation), cold (cryoablation), electricity, or microwave energy to achieve the desired outcome.

Who is a candidate for endometrial ablation?

Candidates for endometrial ablation are typically women experiencing severe menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) that interferes with daily activities and quality of life. It's most suitable for those:

● Who have completed childbearing, as pregnancy after ablation can be dangerous
● Whose menstrual bleeding hasn't improved with medication or non-invasive treatments
● Who wish to avoid or are unable to undergo a hysterectomy

It's not recommended for women with certain uterine conditions, such as active or recent pelvic infection, endometrial hyperplasia, or uterine cancer.

How is endometrial ablation performed?

Endometrial ablation is generally an outpatient procedure, meaning women can go home the same day. It can be performed in a hospital or a clinic setting. At Epiphany Women’s Health, we perform most endometrial ablations in our clinic. 

Before the procedure, medications may be given to dilate (open) the cervix. The procedure usually takes less than an hour to complete.

What are the risks associated with endometrial ablation?

While endometrial ablation is safe and effective for many women, it carries some risks, as do all medical procedures. These may include:

● Post-procedure pain and cramping
● Nausea and vomiting
● Infection
● Bleeding
● Rarely, perforation of the uterine wall or thermal injury to nearby organs

What's the recovery for an endometrial ablation?

Recovery after endometrial ablation is typically quick, with most women resuming normal activities within a few days. It's common to experience some vaginal discharge, which may start as bloody and shift to watery and then cease over several weeks. Cramping can occur but usually subsides within a few days.

What results can be expected from an endometrial ablation?

Endometrial ablation significantly reduces menstrual bleeding in most women. Up to 50% of women report no menstrual flow at all after the procedure. Others may continue to have periods but with much lighter bleeding. It's important to note that ablation is not a form of contraception, and although pregnancy is much less likely after the procedure, it can still occur and be risky.

What kind of endometrial ablation do we use at Epiphany?

NovaSure is a specific form of endometrial ablation that is efficient and effective in treating abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB). NovaSure® is a one-time, five-minute procedure that uses radio frequency energy to remove the endometrium, the lining of the uterus responsible for menstrual bleeding.

How does NovaSure® work?

The NovaSure® procedure typically involves the following steps:

● The woman is given local anesthesia or light sedation to ensure comfort during the procedure.
● A slender device is inserted through the cervix into the uterus.
● A triangular mesh device within is gently expanded to fit the size and shape of the uterus.
● Radio frequency energy is delivered for about 90 seconds to ablate (remove) the endometrial lining.
● The device is retracted, and the procedure is complete.

What are the benefits of NovaSure®?

The benefits of NovaSure® include:

● Short Procedure Time: The entire process takes about five minutes to perform, with the active treatment phase lasting approximately 90 seconds.
● Minimal Anesthesia Required: NovaSure can often be performed using local anesthesia or light sedation, reducing the risks associated with general anesthesia.
● Quick Recovery: Most women return to their normal activities within a day or two.
● High Success Rate: Many women experience a significant reduction in menstrual bleeding, and some may stop having periods altogether.

NovaSure® offers a promising solution for women seeking relief from heavy menstrual bleeding without undergoing major surgery or relying on hormone therapy. As with any medical procedure, it's crucial to discuss all options, benefits, and risks with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment based on individual health needs and life circumstances.

NovaSure® has enabled many women to experience improved quality of life through a simple, one-time procedure, marking a significant step forward in the management of abnormal uterine bleeding.

Who should NOT receive a endometrial ablation: It is important to note that NovaSure® is not recommended for women who have uterine cancer or certain types of uterine conditions, who are postmenopausal, or who have an IUD currently in place.

Next steps...

Pelvic pain in women is a complex issue that requires careful evaluation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. By seeking medical advice and exploring a combination of treatment options, women can find relief from pelvic pain and improve their quality of life.

It's essential to work closely with healthcare providers to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of pelvic pain.

Always consult a healthcare professional for the most current information and personalized advice.

We would love to discuss your condition and our treatment options in more detail with you. We are conveniently located in Peoria, IL and Fairhope, AL. We are here to get you back on top of your game and living your best life.

If you’re ready to take the first step toward treating your pelvic pain, pleas book an appointment online.