Can endometrial polyps cause bleeding?

Written by Yue Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 06, 2024
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Endometrial polyps can bleed, which is due to the proliferation of the endometrium resulting in a polyp-like tissue formation. This tissue sticks to the endometrium and thus has blood vessels on it. If women experience this, clinical symptoms will present as irregular vaginal bleeding. Such bleeding mostly occurs after menstruation has ended, followed by renewed vaginal bleeding, and the amount of bleeding can increase after physical activity. If this condition occurs, it is necessary to go to the hospital for an ultrasound to first rule out if it is caused by endometrial polyps.

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Written by Zhao Li Li
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What should not be eaten with endometrial polyps?

Under normal circumstances, after confirming the presence of endometrial polyps, further examinations and treatments are still required. Generally, endometrial polyps can easily lead to abnormalities in menstrual cycle or menstrual volume, and may also stimulate the occurrence of local vaginal inflammation. Therefore, it is necessary to follow a light and nutritious diet, avoid spicy and stimulating foods, get plenty of rest, avoid excessive fatigue, and ensure thorough cleanliness of the vulva. If the endometrial polyps persist and are large, it is recommended to undergo hysteroscopic surgery for targeted treatment and complete removal of the endometrial polyps.

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Written by Sun Shan Shan
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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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.

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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 Yue Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Symptoms of endometrial polyps

The most common clinical symptom of endometrial polyps is vaginal bleeding, which manifests in the following ways: Some women may experience heavy menstrual flow with a large amount of blood clots. This is because most patients with endometrial polyps have excessive proliferation of the endometrial lining. When this excessively proliferated endometrium sheds during menstruation, it can result in a heavier flow. Additionally, some women may experience vaginal bleeding after their menstruation has ended. Typically, this bleeding is not heavy and is dark red in color. This could indicate the presence of endometrial polyps.

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Written by Yue Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can endometrial polyps be misdiagnosed?

Endometrial polyps can be misdiagnosed as they are caused by excessive proliferation of the endometrial lining. Clinically, the thickness of the endometrium varies throughout the menstrual cycle. Typically, just before menstruation, the endometrium is quite thick. As a result, some women might notice that their endometrium appears thick, resembling a polyp. If such a condition is observed, it is advisable to wait until after a menstrual period when the endometrium has shed before undergoing an ultrasound examination. If it is indeed an endometrial polyp, it will not shed with the menstrual flow. If it’s just thickened endometrium, it will resolve after menstruation. Therefore, it is essential to perform an ultrasound after menstruation to confirm if it is an endometrial polyp. If the polyp persists after a clean menstrual cycle, it can be diagnosed definitively.