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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Endometrial polyp removal time

Endometrial polyps require hysteroscopic polypectomy, which is a type of minimally invasive surgery, performed under intravenous anesthesia or general anesthesia. If the polyp is small and the cervical opening is relaxed, the surgery typically concludes within about an hour. After the surgery, the patient can leave the operating room once they regain consciousness. However, if the polyp is located near the uterine corner and the cervix is relaxed, it can complicate the surgical procedure, extending the duration to about one and a half to two hours. Post-surgery, it is important to monitor the patient's bleeding levels.

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Written by Sun Shan Shan
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Do uterine polyps require surgery?

Endometrial polyps are caused by excessive growth of the endometrial lining, and can be single or multiple, with diameters ranging from a few millimeters to several centimeters. They can be pedunculated or sessile. Endometrial polyps smaller than one centimeter in diameter, if asymptomatic, have a natural resolution rate of about 27% within a year and a low rate of malignancy. If the polyp is large, greater than one centimeter, it requires hysteroscopic endometrial polypectomy or curettage. However, curettage has disadvantages, as it can easily miss polyps, and there is a high chance of recurrence after the surgery. Therefore, once an endometrial polyp larger than one centimeter is identified, it is advisable to promptly visit a hospital for examination and treatment. Postoperative treatment should be guided based on the pathological findings.

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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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.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Can you get pregnant with endometrial polyps?

Endometrial polyps can affect pregnancy, but it does not mean that conception is impossible. Rather, it means that the chances of becoming pregnant may decrease. Endometrial polyps can affect the lining of the uterus and thereby hinder the implantation of a fertilized egg after the sperm and egg have combined. Even if fertilization and implantation occur in the uterus, miscarriage is more likely to happen. Therefore, when endometrial polyps occur, treatment can be administered based on the size and extent of the polyps. If the condition is mild with few and small polyps that do not affect pregnancy, conception is still possible.

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Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can endometrial polyps recur?

Endometrial polyps are a common gynecological condition. Generally, when detected, endometrial polyps need to be surgically removed. After treatment, there is still a chance of recurrence of endometrial polyps, although the chance is not particularly high. Some patients may have a higher chance of recurrence, which varies from person to person. If endometrial polyps recur, further surgical treatment may be necessary. Under normal circumstances, oral medication can be administered post-surgery to help possibly prevent the recurrence of endometrial polyps. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)