Endometrial ablation does NOT shrink fibroids themselves.
Ablation uses heat energy to surgically destroy the inner lining of the uterus. It is performed under general anaesthetic in an operating theatre. If successful, menstrual flow will be diminished, but ablation does not shrink fibroids and will not relieve symptoms related to the bulk of uterine fibroids.
If the uterine cavity is distorted by fibroids, ablation may not work – due to a lack of effective contact between the heating device and the lining of the uterus.
If adenomyosis is also present, sealing off the glands within the uterine muscle wall can lead to severe period pain.