What is endometrial polypectomy?
An endometrial polypectomy involves the removal of uterine, or endometrial, polyps. They’re formed by an overgrowth of cells in the lining of the uterus (the endometrium), that extend into the uterine cavity. Endometrial polyps usually lead to abnormal vaginal bleeding in women who are undergoing or have completed menopause, and although they’re usually benign, uterine polyps can create risks with menstrual periods and fertility.
What are symptoms of endometrial polyps?
Look out for these signs and symptoms of uterine polyps:
- Irregular menstrual bleeding
- Bleeding between menstrual periods
- Excessively heavy menstrual periods
- Vaginal bleeding after menopause
- Infertility
The most common symptoms are irregular or unpredictable menstrual periods. However, it’s important to note that some women may only experience light symptoms or none at all in cases where polyps are on the cervix.
What are causes of endometrial polyps?
Although the cause of endometrial polyps isn’t precisely known, it likely has to do with:
- Increased levels of estrogen
- Chronic inflammation of the cervix, vagina, or uterus
- Clogged blood vessels
What are risk factors for developing endometrial polyps?
Risk factors for developing polyps include:
- Being perimenopausal or postmenopausal
- Having high blood pressure (hypertension)
- Being obese
- Taking tamoxifen, a drug therapy for breast cancer
How are endometrial polyps treated?
Your OB/GYN specialist will only treat uterine polyps if they’re causing excessively heavy menstrual periods, or if they’re suspected to be precancerous or cancerous. They'll also remove them if they’re causing complications during pregnancy or infertility, or if they appear after menopause. Methods for treating endometrial polyps include:
- Medications to help regulate hormonal balance (used as a temporary solution)
- Hysteroscopy, the inserting of surgical instruments through the hysteroscope to remove the polyps
- Curettage, another surgical instrument used along with a hysteroscopy
- Additional surgery such as a hysterectomy may be necessary if the polyps can’t be removed through all other measures
Rarely, uterine polyps can recur even with surgical procedures (other than a hysterectomy), which would require additional treatment.
Can I prevent uterine polyps from forming?
Unfortunately, there’s no way to prevent uterine polyps. You can take measures to reduce risk factors such as obesity or high blood pressure, but it’s important to undergo routine gynecological checkups to stay alert in the case of any formations.
