Uterine Polyps
Uterine polyps are growths attached to the inner wall of the uterus that extend into the uterine cavity. These polyps are usually noncancerous (benign), although some can be cancerous or can eventually turn into cancer (precancerous polyps). The sizes of uterine polyps range from a few millimeters, no larger than a sesame seed to several centimeters, golf ball sized or larger. You can have one or many uterine polyps. They usually stay contained within your uterus, but occasionally, they may slip down through the opening of the uterus (cervix) into your vagina.
Symptoms of uterine polyps include:
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Irregular menstrual bleeding — for example, having frequent, unpredictable periods of variable length and heaviness
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Bleeding between menstrual periods
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Excessively heavy menstrual periods
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Vaginal bleeding after menopause
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Infertility
Some women may experience only light bleeding or spotting or may even be symptom-free.
Diagnosis
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Transvaginal ultrasound – A slender, wand-like device placed in your vagina sends out sound waves and creates an image of your uterus, including its interior.
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Hysteroscopy – In a hysteroscopy, your doctor inserts a thin, flexible, lighted telescope (hysteroscope) through your vagina and cervix into your uterus. Hysteroscopy allows your doctor to examine the inside of your uterus and remove any polyps that are found. This eliminates the need for a follow-up procedure.
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Curettage – During curettage, your doctor uses a long metal instrument with a loop on the end to scrape the inside walls of your uterus. This may be done to collect a specimen for lab testing or to remove a polyp.
Complications
Uterine polyps may be associated with infertility. If you have uterine polyps and you experience infertility, removal of the polyps might allow you to become pregnant. Uterine polyps also may present an increased risk of miscarriage in women who undergo in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Treatment
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Watchful waiting – Small polyps without symptoms (asymptomatic) may resolve on their own. Treatment is unnecessary unless you’re at risk of uterine cancer.
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Medication – Certain hormonal medications, including progestins and gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists, may shrink a uterine polyp and lessen symptoms.
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Surgical removal – During hysteroscopy, instruments inserted through the hysteroscope make it possible to remove polyps once they’re identified.