Pregnancy After Cervical Ablation: Risks & Considerations

Question
I am a 29 yr old woman i had laser ablation about 7mos ago and am trying to get pregnant i wanted to know will this increase the risk of miscarriage and if it does not will it increase the risk of delivering pre maturely

Answer
Dear Joi,

Endometrial ablation typically is not recommended for women who are still trying to conceive children. Before choosing ablation, did the doctor discuss the subject of having children after the procedure with you? Endometrial ablation is a procedure that uses a lighted viewing instrument (hysteroscope) and other instruments to destroy (ablate) the uterine lining, or endometrium.

This procedure is used to control heavy, prolonged menstrual bleeding when:
-Bleeding has not responded to other treatments.
-Childbearing is completed.
-You prefer not to have a hysterectomy to control bleeding.
-Other medical problems prevent a hysterectomy.

The endometrium heals by scarring, which usually reduces or prevents uterine bleeding. Approximately 90% of women will have reduced menstrual flow following endometrial ablation, and up to half will stop having periods. Under normal circumstances, the fact that it destroys the uterine lining complicates a woman's ability to conceive and maintain a pregnancy successfully.

I'm sorry if I've burst a bubble for you - or maybe your doctor knows something about your particular case history that I am not privy to - but this is the information I can give you as I know it regarding endometrial ablation.

I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.

Brenda