How to investigate endometrial polyps?

Written by Yue Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 08, 2024
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Endometrial polyps require an ultrasound examination to be detected, as they are located within the uterine cavity and cannot be seen by a gynecological examination alone. Under ultrasound, one can see a polyp-like object in the uterine cavity, which usually measures only a few millimeters, although some may be about ten or more millimeters in size. Certainly, if possible, a hysteroscopy can also identify them. However, generally, an ultrasound is conducted first to observe the endometrial polyps, followed by a hysteroscopy to remove them.

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Written by Yue Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What are endometrial polyps?

Endometrial polyps refer to excessive proliferation of the endometrial lining, forming polyp-like tissues. Patients typically experience irregular vaginal bleeding, primarily manifesting as minor vaginal bleeding after menstrual periods have ended. Upon visiting the hospital and undergoing a vaginal ultrasound examination, a polyp-like tissue can be detected within the uterine cavity. Once identified, a hysteroscopy or diagnostic curettage is required to remove these tissues. Subsequently, a pathological examination must be conducted to clearly determine the cause and nature of the 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 Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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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.

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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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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.