We women usually hear constantly about cysts, polycystic ovaries, and fibroids, but not many know or have even heard of uterine polyps, even though it is a very common problem. A uterine polyp is the formation of tissue on the inner lining of the uterus, and depending on its location, it can hinder the dream of becoming a mother by making it much harder to get pregnant. Polyps tend to occur in women between 30 and 50 years old, and are usually benign, but can cause discomfort both during menstruation and at other times as well.
The main symptom of a uterine polyp is excessive bleeding during menstruation, which can even continue after menopause. It often causes severe abdominal pain, and the larger and more unfavorably located the polyp, the greater the pain. The pain is similar to and compared with regular menstrual cramps, which can be almost unnoticeable or extremely intense, but it is impossible to diagnose the problem just based on symptoms — tests are required for confirmation.
Uterine polyps can only be diagnosed through a pelvic ultrasound, although some cases may not be visualized or detected by this exam. Transvaginal ultrasonography can also be performed and may reveal certain abnormalities. The causes of uterine polyps have not yet been identified or explained, but studies indicate that most women affected by this problem are obese, have hypertension, or have a family history of the condition.
How Is a Uterine Polyp Treated?
How a uterine polyp is treated depends on its severity. Treatment may begin with hormonal suppressors or move straight to surgery for removal. In some cases, women who have already had children and do not wish to become pregnant again, as well as women of advanced age, may also have the entire uterus removed (a procedure known as hysterectomy). The most recommended treatment by specialists is surgery, in which both the polyp and the implantation base are removed. This is because studies have shown that women who underwent only cauterization of the polyp had a much higher rate of endometrial cancer.
Removal surgery for uterine polyps is considered simple and can often be performed in the doctor’s office under local anesthesia, or via laparoscopy, both of which allow for quicker recovery. It is rare to hear of someone with a uterine polyp developing cancer, but this is why removal is important when diagnosed. If left untreated, especially if the implantation base remains, it can develop into cancer, so don’t neglect proper treatment — and if needed, proceed with removal surgery. This will not only eliminate discomfort but also likely prevent future cancer.
After surgery, it is unlikely that symptoms will reappear or that the uterine polyp will return, but if any symptoms do occur it is advisable to seek a specialist doctor’s evaluation.
See also: Blocked or Adhered Fallopian Tubes – Is It Still Possible to Get Pregnant?
Photo: Jen
