Uterine polyp and frequency therapy

Definition:

A uterine polyp, also known as an endometrial polyp, is a benign growth that forms in the mucous membrane of the uterus (endometrium). These can occur singly or in multiples and vary in size from a few millimetres to several centimetres.

Causes:

The exact causes for the development of uterine are not fully understood, but hormonal imbalances, in particular an excess of oestrogen, appear to play a role.

Other risk factors may be:

Age, especially menopausal or post-menopausal women
Obesity
High blood pressure
Tamoxifen therapy for breast cancer

Symptoms:

Many uterine do not cause symptoms and are often discovered by chance. If symptoms do occur, they may include

Irregular menstrual bleeding
Intermenstrual bleeding or spotting
Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia)
Bleeding after the menopause
Infertility or difficulty getting pregnant

Diagnosis:

Ultrasound: A transvaginal ultrasound can visualise polyps in the uterus.
Hysteroscopy: A procedure in which a thin, illuminated instrument is inserted through the cervix to view the uterine cavity directly and take tissue samples.
Endometrial biopsy: Removal of a tissue sample from the lining of the uterus for examination.

Treatment:

Observation: small, asymptomatic polyps can be monitored without immediate treatment.
Medication: Hormonal therapies can help control symptoms but are not a permanent solution.
Surgical removal: Hysteroscopic polypectomy to remove polyps, especially if they are causing symptoms or are at risk of malignant degeneration.

Prevention:

There are no specific measures to prevent uterine , but regular gynaecological examinations can help to detect and treat at an early stage.

Worth knowing:

Uterine polyps are usually benign, but in rare cases they can become malignant or increase the risk of uterine cancer.
They are a common cause of abnormal uterine bleeding in menopausal women.

Research:

Research into uterine is focussed on understanding the hormonal and genetic factors that contribute to their development and on developing new methods of diagnosis and treatment.