Services

Endometrial Ablation

Dr Brooke O’Brien can talk to you about your personal needs when it comes to the treatment of heavy periods. Dr Brooke O'Brien specialises in treatment of women with heavy periods.

Endometrial Ablation

Overview

Endometrial Ablation is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that can lighten or stop your heavy periods.  It is estimated that heavy menstrual bleeding affects 1 in 5 women.  Many women begin to experience heavy, irregular or prolonged bleeding in their 30s and 40s, as we get closer to menopause.

Heavy periods can cause immense suffering and take a physical, social and emotional toll and is treatable.

Having an Endometrial Ablation

Endometrial Ablation is a quick and effective procedure that permanently removes the lining of your endometrium (the part of your uterus that causes bleeding). It is done directly via a Hysteroscopy which means that there is no incision made on your body. During a Hysteroscopy a thin telescope is inserted through your cervix to look directly at the inside of your uterus, then the endometrium is removed using radiofrequency energy.

Dr Brooke O'Brien uses the NovaSure® device to perform your endometrial ablation. This will completely resolve your heavy menstrual bleeding (in 95% of patients). It is important to know that there are no hormonal side-effects from having an endometrial ablation.

In Hospital

When you book in for an endometrial ablation you will go under a light general anaesthetic as a day case in the North West Private Hospital. You will usually leave hospital within 2-4 hours after your procedure. Dr Brooke O'Brien can perform this at any time during your cycle, even if you are bleeding.

Is a NovaSure Endometrial Ablation right for me?

Dr Brooke O'Brien will discuss all your treatment options for management of heavy menstrual bleeding. This procedure can only be performed if you have completed your family and do not want any more children.

This procedure is also a great option for you if you want a minimally invasive procedure as an alternative to a hysterectomy.

What to expect when having an Endometrial Ablation

Before and After your Endometrial Ablation

Before your Endometrial Ablation

Before recommending an Endometrial Ablation as a treatment option, Dr Brooke O'Brien will take a thorough assessment of your symptoms and condition.

If you are recommended to proceed with an ablation, this will be explained to you in detail, and you will be provided with further written information detailing the procedure.

There will be time made to answer any of your questions you may have. We recommend you contact us if you have any further concerns or questions prior to your procedure.

After your Endometrial Ablation

You will be provided with recovery instructions prior to and following your procedure. We would recommend that you allow 24-48 hours recovery time following your procedure. Most women are able to return to most light to moderate activities after the first 24 hours if you feel well.

In the first 24 hours following your procedure, you may may experience slight cramping. Some women do not feel any discomfort at all. Most cramping can be relieved

There will be time made to answer any of your questions you may have. We recommend you contact us if you have any further concerns or questions prior to your procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Endometrial ablation is a surgical procedure that permanently removes the lining of the uterus, referred to as the endometrium. The most common type is called radiofrequency ablation, which uses radiofrequency energy to create heat that permanently removes the endometrium. At Nurture Gynaecology, we use the NovaSure® technique, where a wandlike device is inserted past the cervix to come in contact with the uterine lining.

It is often recommended for women experiencing heavy periods, who no longer wish to get pregnant or have children. NovaSure® is a quick, safe, and simple procedure to relieve and stop period pain and health risks caused by heavy periods or heavy menstrual bleeding without the side effects of taking hormones like the oral contraceptive pill or the risks of a hysterectomy.

Most women will need a pelvic exam before the procedure to check the size and shape of their uterus, and will require a Pelvic Ultrasound prior to surgery. If you haven’t had one prior to your visit with Dr O’Brien we will arrange one for you. At your initial consultation Dr Brooke O’Brien will explain in full the details of your surgery and what to expect. Your regular medications will be reviewed and you may be advised to stop certain medication for a period of time prior to the surgery.

Our team will arrange your procedure and provide you with all the admission information prior to arrival at hospital. You will only need to stay in hospital for the day, you will not need to stay in overnight.

The process itself only takes about ten minutes. However, you will likely be in the operating theatre for about 30 minutes since you will be under general anaesthesia. After the procedure, you will be taken to a recovery area, where you will be closely monitored. Once your anaesthesia has worn off, and you are able to drink fluids, you will be able to go home. After 24-48 hours of monitoring your condition, or as advised by your Doctor, you can return to your normal activities.

It is normal to have some mild cramping and light bleeding for a few days after the procedure. You may also have nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea. These symptoms should improve within a day or two. If you experience severe pain or your symptoms persist, please refer back to your surgeon or attend an emergency clinic.

The cost can vary depending on whether you have Private Health Insurance or whether you are opting to be self-funded ( chose to pay privately without any Private Health Insurance).  If you would like to know more or plan out the potential costs of your treatment, please do not hesitate to enquire with Nurture Gynaecology to learn more.

No, endometrial ablation is not major surgery. The procedure is done as a day case procedure, which means you can go home the same day.

As with any operation, some risks and complications are associated with a NovaSure® endometrial ablation.  Dr Brooke O’Brien will go through all of these in detail with you at your initial consultation.

Women's Health Clinic - Brisbane Northside


It is important that you understand all your options for treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding. Please discuss your concerns and options for treatment with Dr Brooke O'Brien.
To find out more about the services we offer or to book an appointment, contact us today for a confidential discussion.

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Contact Us

At Nurture Gynaecology, Dr Brooke O’Brien and her women's health team value every single patient. Our practice is located in Everton Park, on the northside of Brisbane.

Contact us today to book your gynaecologist appointment with Dr Brooke O’Brien.

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