Endometrial Polyp | Professional Gynecological Services

Endometrial Polyp is out-pocket of tissue that sticks out of the innermost lining of the uterus. They are often seen in women in their 40s and 50s. The inner-most lining of the uterus is known as the endometrium, hence the name endometrial polyps (Read also: Endometrial Ablation). These polyps are also referred to as uterine polyps and are made up of fibrous tissue and blood vessels from the endometrium. Endometrial polyps tend to come in different sizes, and may measure just a few millimeters or more than a few centimeters in size.

Polyps in the Uterus

The polyps are of two types, pedunculated and sessile. While the former have a pedicle or stalk that fixes them to the uterine wall, the latter are flat based. Pedunculated polyps tend to occur more often than the sessile polyps. The peduculated endometrial polyps often jut out through the cervix and into the vagina due to their longer shape. The color of the polyps is red or brown like the endometrium, but they may also appear dark red especially if large.

Some women may have a single endometrial polyp, while others may have multiple polyps in the uterus. Nearly 10% of women are estimated to have endometrial polyps in the uterus. Additionally, polyps are the primary cause of irregular vaginal bleeding in 25% of the women experiencing this symptom. Though most uterine polyps are benign or non-cancerous in nature, around 0.5% are cancerous. Hence, they do have a possibility of turning into cancerous growths and need to be investigated thoroughly.

Single Endometrial Polyp

Some women may have a single endometrial polyp, while others may have multiple polyps in the uterus. Nearly 10% of women are estimated to have endometrial polyps in the uterus. Additionally, polyps are the primary cause of irregular vaginal bleeding in 25% of the women experiencing this symptom. Though most uterine polyps are benign or non-cancerous in nature, around 0.5% are cancerous. Hence, they do have a possibility of turning into cancerous growths and need to be investigated thoroughly.

Endometrial Polyps Causes

Endometrial polyps do not have a definite cause. However, they tend to grow larger with increased estrogen levels in the bloodstream. As a result, factors like hormone replacement therapy, obesity, and high blood pressure that are likely to result in abnormal hormonal levels may result in endometrial polyps too.

Endometrial Polyp Symptoms

Endometrial polyps cause symptoms like irregular periods, abnormal menstrual bleeding, or vaginal bleeding in between the periods. Menopausal women with polyps may suddenly develop vaginal bleeding even after their periods have stopped. However, in most cases the uterine polyps do not produce any symptoms.

Endometrial Polyp Diagnosis and Treatment

A vaginal ultrasound, hysteroscopy, or dilatation and curettage are usually effective enough in detecting an endometrial polyp. Endometrial polyps need to be removed surgically, although a few small once may disappear on their own without treatment. Generally, endometrial polyps are removed with dilatation and curettage performed with the assistance of a hysteroscopy to know the exact location of the polyp. In the rare case where the polyp is suspected to be cancerous in nature, a total hysterectomy or removal of the uterus is performed.

Dr. Dmitriy Bronfman, MD, is a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist with over 25 years of experience providing complete gynecological care. He is an expert in many aspects of modern women's health, including preventative medicine, pelvic pain, minimally invasive and robotic surgery, and general, adolescent, and menopausal gynecology.

Dr. Bronfman graduated magna cum laude from New York University and received his medical degree from Mt. Sinai School of Medicine before completing his residency at Brooklyn Hospital Medical Center. He currently practices at Professional Gynecological Services and is affiliated with Lutheran Medical Center, New York Methodist Hospital, and The Brooklyn Hospital Center. Dr. Bronfman, together with the core physicians of Professional Gynecological Services, implements state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, the most tested treatments, and the latest surgical technology, all while establishing a welcoming atmosphere in which your questions and concerns will be addressed with the utmost attention.

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