Uterine polyps or endometrial polyps form as overgrowths in the lining of the uterus (endometrium). They are attached to the inner wall of the uterus by a large base or a thin stalk and expand into the uterus. Uterine polyps are non-cancerous growths, but sometimes they turn into cancer (precancerous polyps). Their size can range from a few millimeters to several centimeters.

Uterine polyps are usually confined to the uterus. They can be one or many. They are common in women who are going through menopause or reached menopause – younger women can also get uterine polyps.

What are the symptoms of uterine polyps?

Uterine polyps Symptoms: Polyps cause irregular menstrual bleeding, bleeding between periods or bleeding after menopause, and also heavy menstrual flow. Uterine polyps also cause frequent unpredictable periods with varying lengths and heaviness. Some women may have spotting or light bleeding; others are asymptomatic.

What are the risk factors of uterine polyps?

Hormonal factors seem to play a role in the growth and development of uterine polyps. The following factors increase the risk – obesity, being perimenopausal or postmenopausal, hormonal therapy or drug therapy for the treatment of breast cancer.

Can Uterine Polyps Go on Their Own?

Uterine polyps do not cause any symptoms in some women and therefore, they don’t require treatment.

If uterine polyps are not causing any symptoms, then monitoring the polyps over time is a reasonable approach.

Bottom Line

Women who have been diagnosed with uterine polyps report infertility because the growth of uterine polyps in the uterus doesn’t allow them to have children. Removal of uterine polyps can help improve the chances of pregnancy.

In many cases, the diagnosis of uterine polyps is a chance event as there are no symptoms. However, if you are experiencing frequent and abnormal bleeding, heavy bleeding, or bleeding in between periods then make an appointment with your gynecologist.  And also remember, uterine polyps can also cause vaginal bleeding after menopause – which is a warning sign of other serious conditions – such as cancer.

Therefore, never delay in approaching a doctor if you have any abnormal signs and symptoms. There are several ways to find and remove uterine polyps.