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Endometrial polyp
Are uterine polyps the same as cervical polyps?
Firstly, endometrial polyps are caused by localized excessive growth of the endometrium. Endometrial polyps can be multiple or single. Polyps consist of endometrial glands, stroma, or blood vessels, and are closely related to an excessively high distribution of estrogen levels. Furthermore, long-term use of hormonal medications and health supplements can lead to the development of endometrial polyps. Once endometrial polyps occur, it is advised to undergo a hysteroscopic examination at a hospital within three to seven days after the end of menstruation, and if necessary, proceed with hysteroscopic polypectomy surgery of the cervical endometrium. Cervical polyps are caused by inflammation of the cervix, resulting from localized polypoid hyperplasia of the cervix. Once cervical polyps are detected, further cervical cancer screening is needed. If the cervical cancer screening shows no abnormalities, cervical polypectomy should be performed, followed by a pathological examination after the surgery.
What tests are done for endometrial polyps?
Endometrial polyps are common among women, and the size and number of these polyps vary from person to person. Small polyps can range from 1 to 2 mm, while large polyps can range from 1 to 2 cm. The number of polyps can be one or two, or about ten. The following methods are mainly used to examine endometrial polyps: First, it is important to inquire about symptoms. Most endometrial polyps do not present clinical symptoms, but some can cause increased menstrual flow or abnormal vaginal discharge. Second, the most important method to examine endometrial polyps is to perform an ultrasound. By observing the echo of the endometrium through ultrasound, a judgment can be made. Third, endometrial polyps can be examined through hysteroscopy. This method allows for direct visualization of the endometrium, providing a definitive role in diagnosing endometrial polyps. After confirmation, electrosurgical resection can be performed for treatment at any time.
What should I do if the endometrial polyp recurs?
Endometrial polyps are polyp-like changes that occur due to overgrowth of the endometrial lining, primarily related to high levels of estrogen in the body and hormonal imbalances. Additionally, oral consumption of some health supplements containing hormonal medications can stimulate the formation of endometrial polyps. Patients with hypertension or obesity are among the high-risk groups for developing endometrial polyps. Since endometrial polyps are related to estrogen levels, there is a possibility of recurrence. Once endometrial polyps are suspected, it is crucial to undergo a hysteroscopic examination at a hospital for confirmation. If the polyp is larger than one centimeter or if there is continuous bleeding during menstruation, it is necessary to promptly undergo a hysteroscopic polypectomy. Post-surgery, medications are required to prevent the recurrence of endometrial polyps.
How to treat malignant endometrial polyps?
Endometrial polyps rarely become malignant, but there is indeed the possibility of cancerous changes, so it is generally best to visit the hospital once diagnosed with endometrial polyps for accurate diagnosis and to receive appropriate, correct, and standardized treatment under the guidance of a doctor. If the condition unfortunately turns cancerous, the treatment approach will depend on several factors including the size of the uterus, whether the muscle layer is infiltrated by cancerous tissue, whether the cervical canal is involved, the differentiation of cancer cells, and the overall condition of the patient. The doctor will make a comprehensive analysis to determine the treatment plan. Main treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and medication, which can be used individually or in combination. Specific treatment plans will be provided by the doctor, and it is essential to follow the doctor's instructions, cooperate with the doctor for appropriate and correct treatment to improve the five-year survival rate. After completing the treatment, regular follow-ups should be scheduled to timely determine if there is any recurrence, and it is generally best to strictly adhere to the doctor’s advice and accurate diagnosis.
Do uterine polyps require hospitalization?
Women with endometrial polyps sometimes require hospital treatment, especially in certain cases. For instance, women with smaller and fewer polyps, limited by economic conditions, can undergo diagnostic curettage in outpatient settings. This is followed by a pathological histological examination to rule out the possibility of malignancy. However, this method carries a risk of missed diagnosis. If the women's endometrial polyps are larger and more numerous, or if economic conditions allow, they can be hospitalized for hysteroscopic polypectomy under anesthesia. This procedure offers accurate localization and minimal damage to surrounding tissues. Post surgery, a pathological histological examination can also be performed to determine the type of lesion.
The difference between endometrial polyps and endometrial cancer
Endometrial polyps are a benign condition, while endometrial cancer is a malignant tumor. Endometrial polyps are caused by localized excessive growth of the endometrium and can be either solitary or multiple, ranging in diameter from a few millimeters to several centimeters, and can be categorized as pedunculated or sessile. Polyps consist of endometrial glandular tissue, stroma, and blood vessels. They are benign and can be treated with timely curettage or endometrial polyp electroresection, followed by a pathological examination. In cases of endometrial cancer, it is necessary to promptly perform a hysterectomy. Depending on the pathological analysis, further radiotherapy or chemotherapy may be required.
How to treat endometrial polyps?
The treatment of endometrial polyps is primarily surgical in clinical practice. The widespread use of hysteroscopy greatly aids in the diagnosis and treatment of endometrial polyps. It is recommended that the surgery for endometrial polyps be scheduled within a week after the end of menstruation, when the endometrium is thinner, allowing for clearer visibility during surgery and more precise identification of lesions. Moreover, there is typically less bleeding during surgery at this time. Post-surgery, it is advisable to prescribe regular oral medication based on whether the patient has fertility requirements, to promote the recovery of the endometrium and to prevent postoperative recurrence. It is suggested to take a short course of oral contraceptives for about three to six months, and follow-up visits should be scheduled according to the intraoperative conditions and the doctor's advice.
Can uterine polyps disappear?
First, we need to determine whether the endometrial polyp is a true polyp or a pseudo-polyp. If the polyp appears before menstruation and possibly disappears after the menstrual period, it is actually a pseudo-polyp. If the polyp found before menstruation persists after the menstrual period, it is a true polyp. True endometrial polyps generally do not disappear. Therefore, for true endometrial polyps, it is necessary to decide whether treatment is needed based on the size of the polyp and whether the patient has any corresponding symptoms. For endometrial polyps smaller than one centimeter and without any clinical symptoms, follow-up observation may be sufficient. For those with clinical symptoms, or where the endometrial polyp is larger than one centimeter, early surgical treatment is generally recommended.
Can endometrial polyps be cured?
Endometrial polyps are a common gynecological condition clinically, and most of the time, they are not very harmful. Clinically, once endometrial polyps are discovered, it is recommended to assess with the local hospital's gynecology department whether surgical removal is necessary. Most endometrial polyps can be cured through surgical removal and will not affect the patient's daily life or future. However, it is important to note that endometrial polyps are very prone to recurrence.
How to regulate endometrial polyps
Under normal circumstances, if there is endometrial polyp in the uterus, trying to treat it with food or medication is unlikely to be effective. The best treatment for endometrial polyps is to remove the polyps via hysteroscopy. After the surgery, the polyp tissue should be sent for pathology to differentiate between benign and malignant. Postoperative anti-inflammatory treatment is necessary, and sexual intercourse should be avoided for one month after the surgery. The treatment for endometrial polyps typically occurs within three to seven days after the end of menstruation. Diagnosis usually involves going to the hospital for an ultrasound to check the thickness of the endometrium and the echogenicity of the endometrium. Therefore, trying to manage endometrial polyps through non-surgical means is ineffective; surgical treatment is the only viable option.