Endometrial polyps

Endometrial Polyps are benign (non-cancerous) growths attached to the inner wall of the uterus that extend into the uterine cavity. Overgrowth of the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) leads to the formation of endometrial polyps. These polyps are usually less than a centimeter in diameter, but they can grow larger. They often cause no symptoms, but they can lead to irregular menstruation, menorrhagia (heavy menstrual bleeding), bleeding between periods, or postmenopausal bleeding.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of endometrial polyps is unknown, but they are believed to be affected by hormonal factors. They tend to grow when there is more of the hormone estrogen in the body. Certain conditions and factors can increase the risk of developing endometrial polyps, including:

• Obesity
• Hypertension
• Tamoxifen therapy, a drug used to treat breast cancer
• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
• Being postmenopausal

Symptoms

Many women with endometrial polyps do not experience any symptoms. When symptoms are present, they may include:

• Irregular menstrual bleeding
• Heavy menstrual periods
• Bleeding between periods
• Vaginal bleeding after menopause
• Infertility

Diagnosis

Endometrial polyps are diagnosed through various methods, including:

• Transvaginal ultrasound, which can help visualize the polyp(s)
• Hysteroscopy, a procedure that allows a doctor to look inside the uterus with a thin, lighted telescope
• Endometrial biopsy, a procedure that involves taking a small sample of the uterine lining for analysis

Treatment

Treatment for endometrial polyps may vary depending on the size of the polyp, the number of polyps, the symptoms, and whether the patient is trying to conceive. Options include:

• Watchful waiting, especially if the polyps are small and asymptomatic
• Medication, which can help shrink the polyps or manage symptoms
• Surgical removal, which can be done through hysteroscopy. This is often recommended if polyps are large, symptomatic, or if there is a concern for endometrial cancer.

Prognosis

The prognosis for women with endometrial polyps is generally good, especially when the polyps are benign and treated appropriately. However, there is a small risk that endometrial polyps can become cancerous or precancerous, especially in postmenopausal women, which is why monitoring and, in some cases, removal is recommended.