Uterine polyps

Uterine Polyps

Uterine polyps, also known as endometrial polyps, are benign (non-cancerous) growths attached to the inner wall of the uterus that extend into the uterine cavity. Overgrowth of cells in the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) leads to the formation of uterine polyps. These polyps are usually less than 1 centimeter in diameter, but they can grow to several centimeters. Uterine polyps are most common in women who are going through or have completed menopause, but younger women can also develop them.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of uterine polyps is unknown. However, they are associated with fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly estrogen, which seems to promote their growth. Risk factors for developing uterine polyps include:

• Age, particularly during perimenopause or postmenopause
• High blood pressure (Hypertension)
• Obesity
• Tamoxifen, a drug therapy for breast cancer
• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

Symptoms

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

• Irregular menstrual bleeding, such as having frequent, unpredictable periods of variable length and heaviness
• Bleeding between menstrual periods
• Excessively heavy menstrual periods
• Vaginal bleeding after menopause
• Infertility

Diagnosis

Uterine polyps are diagnosed through a variety of methods, including:

• Transvaginal ultrasound, where a device is inserted into the vagina to send out sound waves to create images of the uterus
• Hysteroscopy, which involves inserting a thin, lighted telescope through the vagina and cervix into the uterus to examine the uterine cavity
• Endometrial biopsy, which involves taking a sample of the uterine lining to be examined under a microscope

Treatment

Treatment for uterine polyps may include:

• Watchful waiting, especially if the polyps are small and asymptomatic
• Medication, which can help shrink the polyps or manage symptoms but does not eliminate them
• Surgical removal, which can be performed through hysteroscopy. This is often recommended if polyps are large, symptomatic, or if there is a concern for cancer.

Complications

While uterine polyps are usually benign, there is a small risk that they could become cancerous or precancerous. Polyps can also cause complications such as heavy bleeding and anemia, or potentially impact fertility.

Prevention

There is no known way to prevent uterine polyps. However, regular gynecological exams can help detect polyps early, and managing risk factors, such as maintaining a healthy weight and blood pressure, may reduce the risk of developing polyps.