Learn About Endometrial Polyps
The endometrium is the lining of the inside of the womb (uterus). Overgrowth of this lining can create polyps. Polyps are fingerlike growths that are attached to the inner wall of the uterus. They can be as small as a sesame seed or larger than a golf ball. There may be just one or many polyps.
Uterine polyps; Uterine bleeding - polyps; Vaginal bleeding - polyps
The exact cause of endometrial polyps is not known. They tend to grow when there is more of the hormone estrogen in the body.
Most endometrial polyps are not cancerous but they can be cancerous or precancerous. The chance of cancer is higher if you are postmenopausal, taking tamoxifen, or have heavy or irregular periods.
Other factors that may increase the risk for endometrial polyps are:
- Obesity
- Tamoxifen or similar medicines used as a treatment for breast cancer
- Postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy
- Family history of Lynch syndrome or Cowden syndrome (genetic conditions that run in families)
Endometrial polyps are common in women between 20 to 40 years of age.
You may not have any symptoms of endometrial polyps. If you do have symptoms, they may include:
- Menstrual bleeding that is not regular or predictable
- Long or heavy menstrual bleeding
- Bleeding between periods
- Bleeding from the vagina after menopause
- Trouble getting or staying pregnant (infertility)
Many polyps should be removed because of the small risk for cancer.
Endometrial polyps are most often removed by a procedure called hysteroscopy. Sometimes, a D and C procedure (dilation and curettage) can be done to biopsy the endometrium and remove the polyp. This is less commonly used.
Postmenopausal women who have polyps that are not causing symptoms may also consider watchful waiting. However, the polyp should be removed if it is causing vaginal bleeding.
Flavia Dias-Bueloni practices in Botucatu, Brazil. Ms. Dias-Bueloni is rated as an Elite expert by MediFind in the treatment of Endometrial Polyps. Her top areas of expertise are Endometrial Polyps, Menopause, Metabolic Syndrome, Endoscopy, and Intrauterine Device Insertion.
Armando Antunes practices in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Mr. Antunes is rated as an Elite expert by MediFind in the treatment of Endometrial Polyps. His top areas of expertise are Endometrial Polyps, Menopause, and Endometrial Cancer.
Midwest Center For Women's Healthcare
M. Susan Scanlon, MD, MSCP is a board-certified gynecologist, robotic surgeon, and Menopause Society Certified Practitioner. She serves as Board President at Midwest Center for Women's HealthCare and Medical Director of Illinois for Unified Women’s Healthcare. After earning her BA at Boston College, Dr. Scanlon graduated from Loyola Stritch School of Medicine and conducted her residency at University of Southern California/LA County and at Rush University Medical Center, where she served as Chief Administrative Resident. Dr. Scanlon is the author of The Gyne's Guide for College Women and has received numerous awards including Phi Beta Kappa, Magna Cum Laude, and Chicago’s Top Doctors. Dr. Scanlon is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Endometrial Polyps. Her top areas of expertise are Painful Menstrual Periods, Endometrial Polyps, Vaginal Cysts, Vaginal Dryness, and Hysterectomy.
In rare cases, polyps can return after treatment.
Endometrial polyps may make it hard to get or stay pregnant.
Contact your provider if you have:
- Menstrual bleeding that is not regular or predictable
- Long or heavy menstrual bleeding
- Bleeding between periods
- Bleeding from the vagina after menopause
You cannot prevent endometrial polyps.
Published Date: October 15, 2024
Published By: John D. Jacobson, MD, Professor Emeritus, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
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