By: DelCharco M.D. OB/GYN
If heavy periods have been disrupting your life and you’ve been waiting for the “right time” to finally do something about it, summer might be exactly that window. Here’s why July, specifically, can be a smart time to consider endometrial ablation and what to know if you’re thinking about scheduling.
A Quick Refresher: What Is Endometrial Ablation?
Endometrial ablation is a short, minimally invasive procedure that removes or destroys the lining of the uterus responsible for menstrual bleeding. At DelCharco M.D. OB/GYN, we offer the NovaSure® procedure, which uses a quick burst of radiofrequency energy delivered through a netted device to treat the uterine lining in approximately 90 seconds.
The entire procedure takes about five minutes and is performed right in our Ocala office: no hospital stay required. For over 90% of women who undergo the procedure, menstrual bleeding is dramatically reduced or stopped altogether, without ongoing pills or hormonal side effects.
Why Summer Timing Can Work in Your Favor
Recovery lines up with lighter schedules
Recovery from endometrial ablation is typically quick; most women return to normal activities within a day or two, with some mild cramping and watery discharge for a few weeks afterward. Many patients appreciate having a few flexible days for recovery, and summer often brings a lighter work calendar, especially if your workplace slows down around the holiday or your kids are out of school and routines are more relaxed.
No more planning summer around your period
Heavy periods have a way of dictating summer plans: vacations, pool days, beach trips, and outdoor activities all become more complicated when you’re managing unpredictable, heavy bleeding. Many women specifically choose summer to treat heavy periods so they can fully enjoy the rest of the season, and the summers ahead, without those constraints.
It fits well around travel
Because recovery is brief, scheduling the procedure before or after a planned trip, rather than during your busiest fall and winter months is often easier to coordinate. If you have summer travel on the calendar, your provider can help you time the procedure so it doesn’t interfere.
Fibroids Awareness Month overlap
July is also Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month, and since fibroids are one of the leading causes of heavy menstrual bleeding, this is a season when many women are already thinking more actively about their cycle health. If you’ve been on the fence, the timing naturally lends itself to finally booking that conversation.
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“I was in & out in less that 20 min. All staff I had interactions with were professional & nice. ” — DelCharco M.D. OB/GYN Patient Testimonial |
Is Endometrial Ablation Right for You?
Endometrial ablation is generally recommended for women experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding who have completed childbearing, since the procedure affects the uterine lining in a way that makes future pregnancy inadvisable. Good candidates typically include women who:
- Experience heavy bleeding that soaks a pad or tampon within two hours
- Have periods lasting more than eight days
- Have anemia related to blood loss
- Have not had success with hormonal treatment, or prefer to avoid ongoing hormonal medication
- Are not planning future pregnancies
Women with an active pelvic infection, uterine cancer (or increased risk), or certain uterine abnormalities may not be good candidates. Your provider will evaluate your individual situation,often starting with a pelvic ultrasound, to confirm the procedure is the right fit.
What the Procedure and Recovery Look Like
During the procedure, your doctor widens the cervix slightly and inserts a thin wand into the uterus. A netted device extends to adjust to your unique uterine shape, then delivers radiofrequency energy for about 90 seconds before being removed. Most women describe the experience as similar to strong menstrual cramps, and the entire visit including prep and recovery time is typically completed in under an hour.
In the days following the procedure, it’s common to experience:
- Mild to moderate cramping, usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief
- Watery, blood-tinged discharge for several weeks as the body heals
- A return to normal activities within one to two days for most women
Many women also report less painful periods and reduced PMS symptoms including irritability in addition to lighter or absent bleeding.
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“Everyone is very nice and professional. Dr. Hopper really listened to me. I just have to get used to him after 30+ years with another gynecologist. Very satisfied with my experience.” — DelCharco M.D. OB/GYN Patient Testimonial |
Ready to Talk About Timing?
Whether you book for July or simply want to start the conversation now, the team at DelCharco M.D. OB/GYN is here to help you figure out if endometrial ablation is right for you and when. Dr. DelCharco is the only OB/GYN in Marion County certified for Level 2 in-office surgery, which means this procedure can happen close to home, without a hospital visit.
To learn more or schedule an appointment at our Ocala office, contact us today.