Balloon Ablation

At A Life Health Group, we aim to provide our patients with the most up-to-date knowledge and methods in women’s health. One of the most common issues affecting women’s quality of life is heavy menstrual bleeding, which can cause significant physical and psychological discomfort. Balloon ablation stands out as a safe, effective, and minimally invasive treatment option for women experiencing this problem. In this comprehensive guide, you will find all the details about balloon ablation — from the treatment process to recovery — clearly explained.

Balloon ablation is a modern surgical procedure primarily performed in women suffering from heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia). The inner lining of the uterus, called the endometrium, may overgrow or thicken irregularly for various reasons. This leads to menstrual periods that are abnormally heavy and prolonged. Balloon ablation safely destroys this excess tissue, helping to control excessive bleeding.

During the procedure, a thin device is inserted into the uterus through the vaginal canal. At the tip of this device is a small balloon, which is inflated once it reaches the uterine cavity. Heated fluid or thermal energy is then introduced into the balloon to precisely destroy the endometrial lining. As a result, menstrual bleeding is significantly reduced — and in some cases, it may stop completely.

Thanks to its minimally invasive nature, no abdominal incision is made, no stitches are required, and the recovery process is remarkably quick.

Balloon ablation is an effective treatment method, especially recommended in the following cases:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia): Applied to women who experience long-lasting and intense menstrual bleeding that negatively affects daily life.
• Bleeding that causes anemia: Preferred for patients who develop anemia and experience reduced quality of life due to excessive bleeding.
• Women unresponsive to other treatments: An effective alternative for those who have not benefited from medication, hormone therapy, or intrauterine devices (IUDs).
• An alternative to hysterectomy: Offers a uterus-preserving option for women who do not wish to undergo complete uterine removal.
• Patients who have completed family planning: Generally performed on women who no longer plan to have children.

This procedure is not recommended for women planning a future pregnancy, as the endometrial lining is permanently damaged, eliminating the possibility of conception.

Balloon ablation offers numerous benefits as a minimally invasive alternative to hysterectomy in modern gynecological practice:

• Minimally invasive procedure: No abdominal incision or stitches are required.
• Short recovery period: Most women are discharged on the same day and can return to daily activities within a few days.
• Less pain: Causes significantly less pain compared to open surgical methods.
• Low risk of blood loss: The risk of heavy bleeding seen in open surgeries is almost eliminated.
• Alternative to hysterectomy: Provides a uterus-preserving option for women who do not wish to undergo complete uterine removal.
• High success rate: In the majority of women, menstrual bleeding significantly decreases or stops entirely.
• Improved quality of life: By resolving bleeding, anemia, and fatigue issues, balloon ablation enhances both social and professional life.

The balloon ablation procedure is relatively short and is performed step by step as follows:

• Anesthesia: It is usually performed under general or spinal anesthesia. The patient does not feel any pain during the procedure.
• Device placement: A special device is inserted through the vagina into the cervix.
• Balloon inflation: The uterine cavity is shaped by inflating the balloon.
• Energy application: Warm fluid or thermal energy is delivered into the balloon to carefully destroy the uterine lining.
• Device removal: Once the procedure is complete, the balloon is deflated and the device is removed from the uterus.

This operation typically takes 15–30 minutes, after which the patient is monitored for a short period and is usually discharged the same day.

Recovery after balloon ablation is generally quick, and most patients return to their normal lives within a short period.

• Hospital stay: Patients are usually discharged the same day. In some cases, an overnight stay may be required.
• Pain management: Mild abdominal pain may occur and can typically be managed with simple painkillers.
• Rest: Rest is recommended for the first few days, and strenuous physical activities should be avoided.
• Recovery time: Full recovery is usually achieved within 1–2 weeks.
• Sexual activity: According to the doctor’s advice, sexual intercourse should generally be avoided for a few weeks.
• Menstrual cycle: Menstrual bleeding may be irregular for the first few months, but it usually decreases or disappears over time.

As with any surgical procedure, balloon ablation also carries certain risks — though they are quite rare and generally mild:

• Mild bleeding: Light spotting or minor bleeding may occur for a few days after the procedure.
• Infection: Rarely occurs and can be easily treated with antibiotics.
• Uterine perforation: A very rare complication.
• Balloon displacement: If the balloon shifts during the procedure, it may reduce effectiveness and require re-intervention.
• Repeat procedure: In some cases, the treatment may need to be repeated after a few years.

Overall, balloon ablation is considered a safe, low-risk, and well-tolerated treatment method for managing excessive menstrual bleeding.

At A Life Health Group, we meticulously plan every step in the field of women’s health, providing our patients with the highest standards of care. Here are the advantages we offer during the balloon ablation process:

• Experienced medical team: Our doctors are highly specialized in women’s health and gynecologic surgery, with years of professional experience.
• Advanced technology: Balloon ablation procedures are performed using state-of-the-art equipment in compliance with the highest safety standards.
• Personalized treatment plans: Each patient’s medical history is unique. Therefore, all treatment plans are individually tailored.
• Comfortable and safe environment: Our operating rooms are equipped with modern technology, prioritizing patient comfort and safety.
• Affordable cost: We offer high-quality medical care at accessible prices to ensure every woman can regain her health.
• Continuous follow-up: Regular post-procedure checkups are conducted to closely monitor the recovery process.

At A Life Health Group, our goal is to enhance women’s quality of life. For more information about balloon ablation and to learn about the most suitable treatment options for you, please contact our team of specialists.