Endometrial polyps are growths in the inner wall of the uterus caused by an overgrowth of endometrial tissues. They can cause spotting, heavy periods, pelvic pain, and infertility. Diagnosis and treatment involve medical procedures such as hysteroscopy and curettage. Most polyps are non-cancerous, but a hysterectomy may be necessary in rare cases of cancer.
Endometrial polyps are growths located in the endometrium or inner wall of the uterus. Endometrial tissues make up the inner lining of the uterus. During menstruation, tissues go through a process of growth and death. Sometimes the tissues can grow too much, which can lead to the formation of an endometrial polyp. Polyps can vary in size, as some can be as small as a seed, while others can grow as large as a golf ball or an orange.
There is no single cause of endometrial polyps. Though there are some factors considered to be contributors to the condition. Polyps appear to grow in response to a naturally produced hormone known as estrogen. They can also form in connection with polyps on other reproductive organs, such as the cervix. High blood pressure or high blood pressure and obesity may also play a role in the development of these growths.
Spotting between menstrual cycles is a common symptom of this condition. Menstrual periods can also be very heavy and long in duration. A woman with endometrial polyps who has already gone through menopause can discover unexpected spotting. You may also experience pelvic pain with or without menstruation. In some cases, particularly large polyps can cause infertility.
There are certain medical procedures that are used to both diagnose and treat endometrial polyps. A hysteroscopy, for example, can be used to accommodate both measurements. This procedure uses a thin, flexible telescope to get a detailed view inside the uterus. From here, a very large polyp can be removed or a smaller one taken to test for malignant tumors. Another double-duty procedure is a curettage, which involves breaking down the wall of the uterus to obtain a tissue sample or to remove a growth, such as a polyp.
Usually, these types of polyps are benign or non-cancerous. Women rarely develop endometrial polyp cancer, although it is possible. In case of cancer, especially if it has spread, a hysterectomy can be chosen as treatment. This procedure involves the removal of the uterus.
Women experiencing symptoms of endometrial polyps will generally see an ob-gyn for further evaluation. Before doing a hysteroscopy or curettage, a less invasive test such as a transvaginal ultrasound for a generalized view of the uterus may be done. This test involves placing a probe inside a woman to get a view of the reproductive organs. Many women with endometrial polyps do not need any treatment, as the polyps can be very small and cause no symptoms.
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