2024-07-26 15:00:46
Pelvic pain and irregular bleeding? They could be uterine polyps. Knowing the symptoms and treatments will give you peace of mind.
Polyps are abnormal growths in a woman’s reproductive system that form in the endometrium, the tissue that lines the inside of the uterus, or in the cervix, known as the cervix.
These growths are usually benign, that is, not cancerous, although they can become malignant in some cases. Learn about uterine polyps, their symptoms, and modern treatments that can resolve this condition..
Symptoms and pain
Endometrial or uterine polyps can be asymptomatic, meaning they don’t always have obvious symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Menstrual bleeding: This may mean more frequent, longer or heavier periods.
- Bleeding between periods: Women may experience spotting or bleeding between menstrual cycles.
- Postmenopausal bleeding: In women who have already gone through menopause, any uterine bleeding is cause for concern and should be considered.
- Infertility: Although rare, the presence of polyps can make conception difficult.
- Pain: Some women may experience mild pelvic discomfort or pain, although this is not common.
In the case of cervical polyps, symptoms can also include bleeding after sex, abnormal vaginal discharge, and, less commonly, pain during sex.
Diagnosis
Polyps are usually diagnosed by a combination of methods, including:
- Transverse ultrasound: It uses sound waves to create images of the uterus and can help identify any abnormalities in the endometrium.
- Hysteroscopy: It involves inserting a small, thin, artificial light and optics (hysteroscope) through the cervix to look directly at the inside of the uterus. This procedure allows visualization and removal of the polyp in the same operation.
- endometrial biopsy: A small piece of tissue from the uterus can be removed and examined for abnormal cells.
Treatments
The treatment of uterine polyps depends on several factors, including the size of the polyp, the presence of symptoms, and whether the woman wants to become pregnant. Without a doubt, and under any circumstances, you should visit your primary gynecologist to give you a correct and prompt medical approach.
- Watching: If the polyp is small and is not causing bothersome symptoms, it can be observed conservatively, especially in premenopausal women. In many cases, small polyps can disappear on their own without treatment.
- Medications: Sometimes, doctors may recommend hormonal medications, such as progestins or gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists, to help reduce symptoms. However, this is usually a short-term solution.
- Surgical procedures: When polyps cause significant symptoms or are suspected of malignancy, they can be surgically removed. Common methods include:
- Hysteroscopy: As previously mentioned, this method allows the polyp to be removed directly under direct vision.
- Dilation and curettage (D&C): This procedure involves dilating the cervix and then scraping the inner lining of the uterus. It can be done alone or together with hysteroscopy.
Prognosis and aftercare
Uterine polyps are generally a treatable condition with a good prognosis. Removing the polyps usually resolves their symptoms, and most women are able to resume normal activities soon after the procedure. Proper follow-up is important as polyps may recur after treatment.
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