Endometrial resection at Exeter Hospital

What happens during endometrial resection?

Endometrial resection usually takes up to one hour and is performed under general anaesthetic. Your gynaecologist will pass a thin tube with a light at the end called a hysteroscope through your vagina and cervix into the cavity of your womb. A very thin loop attached to the hysteroscope will be used to remove (resect) the lining of your womb so it does not grow back. 

Going home after endometrial resection

Endometrial resection is usually performed as a day case meaning you can go home the day of your procedure. Sometimes patients will be asked to stay overnight to recover from general anaesthetic. 

You may experience some cramping similar to period pain for 24 to 48 hours after this procedure. You may also have slight bleeding or discharge for up to 2 - 3 weeks. Please contact your consultant if you experience any increase in bleeding or pain.

You should be able to return to normal activities within 48 - 72 hours. 

Most women experience lighter periods following endometrial resection. Some find they no longer have periods. 

Note: endometrial resection causes reduced menstrual flow. In some cases patients no longer have periods. You should not have this procedure if you plan to have children.

What complications can happen?

Every surgical procedure has a risk of complications. Be sure and discuss any concerns you might have about these risks with your surgeon.

General complications of any operation:

• Pain
• Sickness or feeling sick
• Bleeding or discharge
• Infection
• Blood clots (Deep vein thrombosis)

Specific complications of endometrial resection may include:

• Accidental puncture of the uterus or nearby organs
• Burns to the surface of the uterus
• Cervical laceration (tearing of the opening of the uterus)
• Continued bleeding or pain