Endometrial Polyps, Intrauterine Polyps, Cervical Polyp
What is Endometrial Polyp? Why does polyp in the uterus occur?
Polyps in the uterus are mole-like formations that originate from the inner wall of the uterus and specialise inwards. They can be seen as single or multiple and can be of various sizes. Uterine polyps can sometimes be large enough to hang out of the cervix or even out of the vagina. Polyps can be stalked or they can be broad-based.
Cervical polyps often protrude outwards from the cervix and give symptoms.
Although it can be seen between the ages of 12-80, it is most commonly seen between the ages of 29-59.
The cause of formation is unknown. There is no definite information that estrogen or progesterone hormones trigger the growth of polyps.
How to Detect the Presence of a Polyp in the Uterus?
Polyps in the uterus may not show any symptoms.
Uterine polyps can sometimes cause intermenstrual bleeding, heavy bleeding known as menorrhagia, breakthrough bleeding, brown spotting before or after menstruation, or postmenopausal bleeding. They may also cause bleeding during or after intercourse. This bleeding can lead to symptoms of anemia, causing the patient to feel fatigued, experience palpitations, or have dizziness and lightheadedness.
Uterine polyps can interfere with conception, potentially leading to infertility or increasing the risk of miscarriage.
Do Endometrial Polyps Become Cancerous?
Endometrial polyps are generally benign but carry a low risk of becoming cancerous. Benign polyps may sometimes coexist with endometrial cancer (uterine cancer). Therefore, if a benign polyp is removed, especially post-menopause, there is no guarantee that endometrial cancer is not present. In such cases, endometrial biopsy or curettage may be necessary.
How Are Endometrial Polyps Diagnosed?
For women with irregular or heavy bleeding, an endometrial biopsy is recommended to diagnose conditions like endometrial polyps, endometrial hyperplasia, or endometrial cancer. Previously, dilation and curettage were commonly used for this purpose.
If an endometrial polyp is suspected during an ultrasound or HSG (hysterosalpingography) procedure, hysteroscopy is recommended for a definitive diagnosis. Through hysteroscopy, the suspected polyp can be removed from its root and sent for pathological examination.
In some cases, polyps are incidentally diagnosed during curettage or hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus).
What is the Treatment for Endometrial Polyps? How Are Polyps Removed with Hysteroscopy? How is Uterine Polyp Treatment and Polyp Surgery Performed?
One approach for treating polyps is curettage, where instruments are used to grip and remove the polyps, followed by scraping the uterine lining to clear out any remaining tissue. This material is then sent to pathology. However, this method carries the risk of leaving tissue behind, which can lead to continued bleeding. Sometimes, polyps are incidentally found in curettage material collected for other reasons, and if the patient is asymptomatic, no further treatment may be necessary.
In the hysteroscopic method, performed under light anesthesia or sedation, a sterile field is set up, and a millimeter-thin camera is inserted through the cervix to visualize the polyps directly. Specialized instruments at the tip of the hysteroscope are then used to remove polyps completely from their base. If the polyp is located in the cervix, it may even be removed under local anesthesia, or without any anesthesia, in a clinical setting.
How Soon Can I Return to My Routine After Hysteroscopic Polyp Surgery?
You can return home the same day after hysteroscopy, and you generally do not need to stay in the hospital. Most patients can return to work the following day.
What are the Costs of Endometrial Polyp Surgery in Istanbul?
It’s recommended to have a skilled physician perform the hysteroscopy. In Istanbul, Dr. Çiğdem Yayla Abide has successfully performed hysteroscopic polyp removal surgeries for years. The cost of hysteroscopic polyp removal varies based on the selected hospital.
Do Endometrial Polyps Recur After Treatment?
Yes, endometrial polyps have a possibility of recurring after treatment.
Should the Uterus Be Removed in Cases of Endometrial Polyps?
A hysterectomy, or uterus removal surgery, is considered if there is evidence of cancer or precancerous changes in the polyps. Additionally, if bleeding continues despite polyp removal, the option of hysterectomy may be presented to the patient.
