Do uterine polyps affect pregnancy?

Written by Zhang Lu
Obstetrics
Updated on August 31, 2024
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Endometrial polyps refer to the hyperplasia of the endometrial lining due to inflammatory stimuli, resulting in many polypoid tissues. Whether endometrial polyps affect pregnancy mainly depends on the number and size of the polyps, and whether they cause clinical symptoms. First, if the polyps are small and few in number without causing an increase in menstrual flow, they generally do not affect pregnancy and do not require removal of the endometrial polyps, as removing them could instead easily damage the function of the endometrial lining. Second, if the polyps are large, over one centimeter, or there are multiple endometrial polyps, and they cause an increase in menstrual volume, this indicates that the endometrial polyps have impacted the woman's body. In such cases, it is necessary to use a hysteroscope to remove the endometrial polyps before trying to conceive.

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Written by Sun Shan Shan
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Causes of endometrial polyps

There are many causes of endometrial polyps. One is the excessive secretion of estrogen in the body, leading to an uneven distribution of hormone levels. Furthermore, long-term use of health products and hormone medications can stimulate their development, as can gynecological inflammations from events like abortion, childbirth, or surgical procedures, all of which can lead to the formation of endometrial polyps. Additionally, high blood pressure and obesity are also high-risk factors for endometrial polyps. Therefore, it’s crucial to carry out a timely hysteroscopic examination once endometrial polyps are detected. This examination should take place three to seven days after menstruation at a hospital. If the polyps are larger than one centimeter in diameter, or if there is continuous vaginal bleeding, an immediate hysteroscopic polypectomy is necessary.

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Written by Sun Shan Shan
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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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.

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Written by Zhang Lu
Obstetrics
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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.

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can endometrial polyps be cured?

Women with endometrial polyps can be completely cured. First, endometrial polyps are benign lesions, which may be due to abnormally high levels of estrogen in women, leading to proliferative lesions. It is possible to completely remove the polyps through hysteroscopic endometrial polyp electrocision surgery. However, after surgery, some women may experience recurrence. To prevent this, periodic oral progestogen medication can also be administered to prevent recurrence. Some women may have endometrial inflammation, leading to the recurrence of endometrial polyps. In this case, broad-spectrum antibiotics can be used for anti-inflammatory treatment to prevent recurrence. (The use of drugs should be carried out under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

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ultrasonographic appearance of endometrial polyps

Under normal circumstances, the diagnosis of endometrial polyps is usually determined clearly by performing an ultrasound at the hospital. Normally, the endometrial line is continuous. There is a specific thickness to the endometrium. Typically, a thickness of 3-4mm in the endometrium at the end of menstruation is considered normal. During ovulation, the thickness of the endometrium is 8mm. Before menstruation starts, the endometrial thickness is generally more than 10mm. If it is within this range, it is generally considered normal. If there is an increase in endometrial thickness and the echo of the endometrium is not continuous, and the endometrial echo is uneven, in most cases, endometrial polyps are suspected. The diagnosis of endometrial polyps can generally be clearly determined through color Doppler ultrasound. This diagnosis is not difficult. Once endometrial polyps are clearly diagnosed by ultrasound, they can be removed by hysteroscopic polypectomy at the hospital.