Uterine Polyps

Overview

The inner lining of the uterus is called the endometrium. Growths on this endometrium are called endometrial polyps or quite simply, polyps. Though usually benign, there is a possibility of these polyps becoming cancerous. Polyps may vary in both number and size.

Signs and Symptoms

Irregular periods – duration of a period cycle as well as time interval between two cycles is unpredictable
Heavy periods
Post-menopausal bleeding
Inability to conceive

Causes and Risk Factors

Hormonal changes
Women just before and after menopause are more at risk
Obesity
Hypertension
Tamoxifen, a drug used in the treatment of breast cancer, can cause polyps

Complications

Women with polyps have difficulty in conception. Removing the polyps might help with pregnancy.

Diagnosis

Ultrasound and hysterosonography to diagnose polyps
Hysteroscopy
Biopsy of the endometrium, but in some cases the biopsy could miss the polyp cells

Surgery/Treatment

If the polyp does not cause any problems, it would be best to wait and watch.

Certain hormonal medication can be used to treat polyps. However, there is always a chance for the recurrence of the condition.

Hysteroscopy can be done to remove the polyps. After removal, the polyps are sent for biopsy.

Prevention

Undergoing regular check-ups
Keeping blood pressure under check
Maintaining ideal weight