I was having the same problems with heavy bleeding and terrible cramps. I had an ablation back in 2005. My periods were much lighter with much less pain for about three years. About the time I turned 40 I was back to the heavy bleeding and the cramps were becoming unmanageable. I wound up going back on the pill and it has managed my symptoms nicely. Now my best friend had the procedure a few months after me and she never had another period again and has had no problems. My doctor did say the older you are when you have it done the more likely you are not have periods at all. I was only 36 at the time and my friend was 44. I won't say I was unhappy with the results of my ablation, but I do wish my periods had gone away forever like my friend!