What It Is

Uterine polyps, also called endometrial polyps, are soft, overgrown tissues that develop on the inner wall of the uterus (endometrium). They are usually benign (non-cancerous) but in some cases can contain precancerous or cancerous cells. Polyps vary in size—from a few millimeters to several centimeters—and may be single or multiple.

Key Features

  • Growths attached to the uterine wall by a thin stalk or a broad base
  • Composed of endometrial tissue and covered by the lining of the uterus
  • More common in women aged 40–50, but can occur at any age
  • Can affect menstrual patterns and fertility

Causes and Risk Factors

  • Hormonal imbalance, particularly excess estrogen
  • Chronic inflammation of the endometrium
  • Risk increases with age, obesity, high blood pressure, or tamoxifen use (a breast cancer drug)

Symptoms

  • Irregular menstrual bleeding
  • Heavy menstrual periods (menorrhagia)
  • Spotting or bleeding between periods
  • Postmenopausal vaginal bleeding
  • Infertility or difficulty conceiving

Some women may have no symptoms, and polyps are found during routine exams or fertility evaluations.

How It Affects Fertility

  • May block the cervix or fallopian tube openings, preventing sperm from reaching the egg
  • Can interfere with embryo implantation
  • Removal of polyps can improve pregnancy rates in women undergoing fertility treatments

Diagnosis

  • Transvaginal ultrasound – often used for initial detection
  • Sonohysterography (saline infusion sonography) – better visualization of the uterine cavity
  • Hysteroscopy – allows direct visualization and removal of polyps during the same procedure

Treatment Options

  • Observation – small, asymptomatic polyps may resolve on their own
  • Hysteroscopic polypectomy – minimally invasive surgical removal
  • Medication – hormonal treatments may help control symptoms but are less effective for removal
  • Pathology testing – all removed polyps should be examined to rule out malignancy

Prevention

  • There is no guaranteed way to prevent polyps, but maintaining hormonal balance, managing risk factors, and having regular gynecological exams can help with early detection and treatment.