I am considering having the endometrial ablasion to help reduce the effects of my cyclical anemia. What are the short/long term side effects? I have a history of bad reactions to anesthesia. Are there alternatives to general anesthesia??

Here are a couple of reliable websites that will give you info regarding side effects of the procedure. The first one discusses the different options for anesthesia. If you have a history of bad reactions, you should speak with your gynecologist about this and discuss the anesthia previously used that you seem to be allergic to. He/she is the best one to make suggestions regarding this, rather than relying on a public forum. You may want to request that he/she put you in touch with the anesthiologist that will be called in to handle this part of the procedure. Discuss your concerns and options with the one who will be in charge of it. Personally, that is what I do. I feel it is always good for me to make a personal connection with anyone who I am entrusting my life with. I want them to see me as the person I am and not just another body on the table. I think it makes a tremendous amount of difference in the care that I receive.


Endometrial ablation (http://women.webmd.com/Women-Medical-Reference/Endometrial-ablation-16200)

http://www.asrm.org/Patients/FactSheets/endoablation.pdf


After reading this info, it sounds like a much less invasive procedure than the standard surgery. FYI, in addition to what I mentioned above, I also ask the doctor who is performing the surgery, how many patients he has performed this particular procedure on. Then I ask, how many complications arose from it. My point in doing that is that I want the surgeon who has the most experience and the most success. I view surgeons the same way as I view any other "repairman". I want only the best to handle my problem.

Also, please don't just rely on public forums for info. Since this is a relatively new procedure, you want to gather as much info as possible. You doctor should have all the background info on it and what to expect. If he hasn't given you any paperwork to read, ask for it. If he doesn't have anything to give you, I would be very concerned about his experience and would start researching, through my insurance company, what doctors they have listed that have experience in this area. Good Luck to you honey! If you get a chance, please come back and let me know how you are doing.