Endometrial ablation is a procedure that destroys or removes the lining of the uterus to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding. It is done through the vagina and cervix without skin incisions and usually takes under an hour. It is only suitable for women who do not want future pregnancy, and periods typically become lighter, though they do not stop for everyone.
- Duration
- Usually under 1 hour
- Anesthesia
- Sedation or brief general
- Hospital stay
- Same-day discharge
- Back to desk work
- 1–2 days
- Suitable for
- Heavy bleeding, family complete
- Cost guide
- ₩2,500,000–6,000,000
What is endometrial ablation?
The endometrium is the lining of the uterus that sheds each month as a period. Ablation uses heat, cold, radiofrequency energy or hysteroscopic resection to destroy or remove most of this lining. Scar tissue then forms, so less lining grows back and bleeding is reduced.
It is one option among several for heavy menstrual bleeding; others include hormonal IUDs, medication and, for fibroids or polyps, targeted removal.
Who is a good candidate — and who is not?
| Usually suitable | Usually not suitable |
|---|---|
| Heavy periods that affect daily life | Wishing to become pregnant in the future |
| Family complete and no wish for pregnancy | Known or suspected endometrial or uterine cancer, or untreated precancer |
| Medication or a hormonal IUD did not help or is not wanted | A large uterus or fibroids that distort the cavity |
| Normal endometrial biopsy and ultrasound beforehand | Current pelvic infection or pregnancy |
Before ablation, an ultrasound and usually an endometrial biopsy or hysteroscopy are done to exclude other causes. Ablation is not a form of contraception: pregnancy after ablation is uncommon but can be dangerous, so reliable contraception or sterilization is still needed.
Ablation compared with other treatments for heavy periods
| Hormonal IUD | Endometrial ablation | Hysterectomy | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Procedure | Clinic insertion | Day procedure through the cervix | Major surgery |
| Fertility | Preserved after removal | Not suitable for future pregnancy | Ends fertility |
| Effect on bleeding | Often much lighter; some stop | Lighter for most; some stop | Periods stop |
| Recovery | Same day | 1–2 days | Several weeks |
| Possible need for further treatment | Replacement after several years | Some women need repeat treatment or hysterectomy | None for bleeding |
Read about the IUD insertion visit if you would like to compare.
Your ablation at Yoonho, step by step
- Consultation Your bleeding pattern, history and goals are discussed in English. Ultrasound is usually done the same day.
- Pre-procedure tests An endometrial sample or hysteroscopy and blood tests check for anemia and exclude other causes.
- Timing The procedure is often planned shortly after a period, when the lining is thinner.
- The procedure Under sedation or brief anesthesia, the cervix is gently opened and the ablation device or hysteroscope is used to treat the lining.
- Recovery room You rest for 1–2 hours and go home with written aftercare instructions.
- Follow-up A review visit checks your recovery; the full effect on bleeding is usually judged over a few months.
A thick uterine lining can cause heavy, prolonged menstrual bleeding.
After ablation the lining is thinned, so periods are usually lighter.
Recovery, results and risks
- Day 0–2 Cramping like a period, nausea or frequent urination can occur for a day or two.
- Up to a few weeks Watery or bloody discharge is common. Use pads, not tampons, and avoid intercourse as advised.
- 2–3 months Bleeding usually becomes lighter; some women stop having periods.
Possible risks include infection, bleeding, injury to the uterus (perforation) or nearby organs, and, with hysteroscopic methods, fluid absorption. Ablation does not work for everyone, and some women later need repeat treatment or hysterectomy.
Cost and insurance for international patients
As a general guide, endometrial ablation costs about ₩2,500,000–6,000,000, depending on the method, anesthesia and pre-procedure tests. A written estimate is given after consultation.
- NHI-enrolled residents may have medically necessary procedures partly covered — see health insurance for foreigners.
- English receipts, a diagnosis and medical certificates are available for travel insurance claims.
Endometrial ablation at Yoonho Women's Hospital in Apgujeong, Seoul is part of our surgical gynecology service, led by Dr. Jung-Ho Seo.
Why international patients choose Yoonho
Frequently asked questions
Will my periods stop completely?
Some women stop having periods, but for most bleeding becomes lighter rather than stopping. Results vary.
Can I get pregnant after endometrial ablation?
Pregnancy is unlikely but possible and can be risky, so ablation is only for women who do not want future pregnancy, and contraception is still needed.
Is endometrial ablation the same as a hysterectomy?
No. The uterus stays in place and only the lining is treated, with a much shorter recovery than hysterectomy.
Can I fly home soon afterward?
Many patients can fly within a few days after an uncomplicated procedure. Share your travel dates so we can plan tests, the procedure and a check-up.
Does it help with fibroids?
Ablation is not designed to remove fibroids. Submucosal fibroids may be removed by hysteroscopic myomectomy first or instead.
OB-GYN Specialist · Ph.D. · Medical Director
Former Professor of OB-GYN, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine · Former editorial board member, AAGL · 11th President, Korean Society of Aesthetic Gynecology
Last reviewed: . This page is for general information and does not replace an in-person consultation.
Talk to an English-speaking gynecologist
Yoonho Hospital · 304 Apgujeong-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul · Mon–Fri 9:00–18:00, Sat 9:00–13:00 · Walk-ins welcome.