Uterine ablation, also called endometrial ablation, is a medical procedure that destroys the inner lining of the uterus. This procedure is often used to correct dysfunctional uterine bleeding or heavy menstrual periods. Uterine ablation carries risks, including the risk of infection. Instruments placed into the vagina during uterine ablation can introduce infection-causing bacteria into body. A woman may develop an infection in her uterus, vagina or bladder after the procedure.
Vaginal discharge is common after endometrial ablation, according to West Side Women’s Care in Arvada, Colo. Normal vaginal discharge may be pink in color with a light flow. However, a foul-smelling discharge may indicate infection. A woman may experience tenderness in her pelvis or vagina, which may occur with foul discharge or as a single infection symptom.
A woman may experience feelings of general illness if she contracts an infection after uterine ablation. Deanna M. Neff, MPH, of the Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center in Fort Hood, Texas, advises that fever and chills may accompany infection. Additionally, she may experience muscle aches, shaking, weakness or nausea as infection symptoms.
Uterine ablation can introduce bacteria into the urethra, the tube that leads into the bladder. Urinary tract infection may result. A woman may experience dysuria, or painful urination. Dysuria may be felt as a stinging or burning sensation, which may be more prominent as urination ends. Blood may be present in the urine, and urine may have a strong odor and dark color with infection.
Lower Back Pain
Pain in the lower back may result from either a urinary infection or the uterine infection caused by the ablation procedure. Infection may travel to the kidneys, or cause the uterus to become irritable, which can cause pain. A woman may feel a sharp pain or a dull ache in her lower back or flanks. Lower back pain may be accompanied by additional infection symptoms, as well.