TOP 12 Facts About Endometrial Polyps

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If your doctor recently mentioned endometrial polyps and you nodded like you knew what that meant—don’t worry, you’re not alone. These little growths in the lining of your uterus can sound way scarier than they usually are. Whether you’re dealing with odd spotting, weird cycles, or just diving into some late-night health Googling, this guide is here to break it all down. Let’s take a look at the TOP thirteen facts about endometrial polyps—what they are, why they happen, and what to do if your uterus decides to grow a few extras.

1. Usually growths inside the uterus

Endometrial polyps are abnormal but frequent growths inside the uterus (known as the endometrium). They develop from the uterine lining (endometrium) and are usually harmless. A tiny number of endometrial polyps may include abnormal or cancerous cells.

2. Quite a common problem

Polyps in the lower reproductive tract, including the cervix and uterus, affect 7.8-50% of women.

3. Endometrial polyp can affect postmenopausal women too

Although most endometrial polyps are benign, around 1% of polyps in premenopausal women and 4.9% of polyps in postmenopausal women will exhibit atypical or malignant characteristics.

4. They can affect women of any age

Endometrial polyps can be observed in both reproductive and menopausal women, with the highest prevalence among those aged 40 to 49.

5. Often causes abnormal uterine bleeding

Endometrial polyps are the most common abnormal discovery in the uterus, and they can cause abnormal uterine bleeding and infertility. Polyps cause 50% of irregular uterine bleeding and 35% of infertility cases.

6. What’s the cause?

Endometrial polyps have an unknown etiology, however, their growth can be promoted by estrogen because they contain estrogen and progesterone receptors. Tamoxifen and hormone replacement therapy may increase the risk of developing polyps. Other risk factors include obesity and elevated levels of inflammation in the uterine cavity. Genetic factors can contribute to the production of endometrial polyps.

7. Symptoms

One of the most prevalent endometrial polyp symptoms is abnormal uterine bleeding, which affects 68% of premenopausal and postmenopausal women with polyps.

8. How are they diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will evaluate you and inquire about your symptoms. Certain diagnostics, such as transvaginal ultrasound or sonohysterogram, can be used to detect polyps.

A sonohysterogram (water ultrasound) involves pushing water into your uterus to keep it enlarged. This allows the ultrasonography to view polyps more clearly. A hysteroscopy is a test that uses a scope to examine the inside of your uterus. Tissue samples may also be collected and sent to a laboratory to be examined for malignancy.

9. How to get rid of them?

Endometrial polyps can be easily removed with a hysteroscopy under IV anesthesia, either in the office or in the operating room.

10. What increases my risk for an endometrial polyp?

The following factors may increase the risk of an endometrial polyp:

- Obesity

- Age 50 years or older

- High estrogen (female hormone) levels

-Use of certain breast cancer medicines

11. What can I do to manage an endometrial polyp?

Achieving or maintaining a healthy weight. Extra weight raises your estrogen levels. This can put you at risk for additional polyps. Consult your healthcare practitioner about a healthy weight for you. If you want to lose weight, he or she can assist you in developing a plan.

Eat various nutritious foods. Healthy eating can help you lose weight and reduce your risk of cancer. Healthy foods include fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy products, cooked legumes, lean meats, and fish. Your healthcare professional or dietitian can assist you in developing a healthy eating plan.

Consult your healthcare practitioner about pregnancy. If the polyp interferes with other elements of your reproductive system, you may be unable to become pregnant. Your healthcare practitioner can advise you on potential treatment options.

12. When should I seek medical care?

If you have new or worsening symptoms, the symptoms appear again after successful treatment for a polyp, or you have questions or concerns about your condition or care, call your healthcare provider

If you have bleeding from your vagina that continues or is bright red and feel dizzy or lightheaded from heavy blood loss, you should call a doctor ASAP.