Heavy or irregular periods can significantly impact your daily life. If you’re looking for treatment options, you may have come across endometrial ablation and dilation and curettage (D&C). While both procedures address uterine health, they serve different purposes. Understanding their differences can help you determine which is best for your needs.

Our expert team at AllSafe Medical Group is here to evaluate your symptoms, explain your treatment options, and provide personalized care for optimal reproductive health.

What Is Endometrial Ablation?

Endometrial ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that removes or destroys the lining of the uterus (endometrium) to reduce or stop heavy menstrual bleeding. It is a non-hormonal treatment option designed for women who do not plan to have children in the future.

There are several techniques used to perform endometrial ablation, including radiofrequency energy, cryotherapy, heated fluids, and microwave energy. Each method works by targeting and eliminating the endometrial lining, reducing menstrual flow or stopping it entirely.

This procedure is typically recommended for women who have heavy periods that interfere with their quality of life and who have not found relief through medication or other treatments. It is not suitable for women who wish to become pregnant, as it significantly reduces the likelihood of carrying a pregnancy to term.

What Is a D&C (Dilation and Curettage)?

Dilation and curettage, commonly referred to as a D&C, is a surgical procedure that involves dilating the cervix and removing tissue from the uterus using a suction device or a curette (a small, spoon-shaped instrument).

A D&C may be recommended for several reasons, including:

• Diagnosing or treating abnormal uterine bleeding
• Removing retained pregnancy tissue following a miscarriage or abortion
• Investigating potential uterine conditions such as fibroids, polyps, or cancer

This procedure is often performed in combination with a hysteroscopy, allowing doctors to visually examine the uterus before removing any abnormal tissue. Unlike endometrial ablation, a D&C does not permanently alter the endometrium, making future pregnancies still possible in many cases.

Key Differences Between Endometrial Ablation and D&C

While both procedures involve the uterus and address menstrual irregularities, their purpose and effects differ significantly.

Feature	Endometrial Ablation	D&C
Purpose	Reduce or stop heavy periods	Diagnose/treat uterine conditions
Fertility Impact	Not recommended for future pregnancies	May allow future pregnancies
Invasiveness	Minimally invasive	Slightly more invasive
Anesthesia Required?	Local or no anesthesia	Usually requires anesthesia
Recovery Time	1-2 days	Several days to a week

Who Is a Good Candidate for Endometrial Ablation?

Endometrial ablation is typically recommended for women who:

• Have heavy menstrual bleeding that has not responded to other treatments
• Are finished with childbearing, as pregnancy after ablation is rare and high-risk
• Have no evidence of uterine abnormalities, cancer, or large fibroids

This procedure is not suitable for women who have uterine infections, recent pregnancy, or an increased risk of endometrial cancer. It is also not effective in treating symptoms related to fibroids or endometriosis.

When Is a D&C Recommended?

A D&C is often performed when doctors need to diagnose or treat uterine conditions, such as:

• Unexplained heavy or irregular bleeding
• Suspected uterine polyps or fibroids
• Removing pregnancy tissue after a miscarriage
• Investigating abnormal cells or potential cancer

Unlike endometrial ablation, a D&C is not meant to be a permanent solution for heavy bleeding but rather a diagnostic or temporary treatment option.

Recovery Time: Endometrial Ablation vs. D&C

Both procedures are outpatient treatments, meaning patients can go home the same day. However, recovery times vary.

• Endometrial ablation: Most women return to normal activities within 24-48 hours, though mild cramping and vaginal discharge may persist for a few days.
• D&C: Recovery can take several days to a week, with potential spotting, mild discomfort, and temporary bloating.

It is important to follow your doctor’s post-procedure instructions and avoid strenuous activities or sexual intercourse until cleared.

Are These Procedures Effective for Heavy Periods?

Both procedures can help manage heavy menstrual bleeding, but their effectiveness and longevity depend on the underlying cause of the bleeding.

• Endometrial ablation is highly effective for reducing menstrual bleeding long-term, with many women experiencing lighter periods or no periods at all after treatment.
• D&C can provide temporary relief from heavy bleeding, but the symptoms may return if the underlying cause is not addressed. Additional treatments, such as hormonal therapy or further procedures, may be necessary.

Endometrial Ablation or D&C: Which Procedure Is Right for You?

Choosing between endometrial ablation and a D&C depends on your individual symptoms, medical history, and reproductive goals.

• If you are looking for a long-term solution to heavy periods and do not plan to have children, endometrial ablation may be the best choice.
• If you need a diagnosis or a temporary solution for irregular bleeding, a D&C may be the better option.

Your doctor will evaluate your symptoms and discuss the risks and benefits of each procedure to help determine the best course of action.

Partner with AllSafe Medical Group

At AllSafe Medical Group, our team of highly trained OB-GYN specialists is dedicated to helping women find the most effective treatments for their reproductive health concerns. Whether you need relief from heavy periods, a diagnostic procedure, or expert guidance on your treatment options, we provide compassionate, individualized care.

If you’re experiencing heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding, we’re here to help. Call (323) 454-2388 or book an appointment online to schedule a consultation with our experienced medical team for your endometrial ablation or D&C treatment today.