Uterine Polyps

When cells in the lining of the uterus overgrow, uterine polyps, also known as endometrial polyps, are formed. They can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters. These polyps are usually noncancerous although some can be cancerous and others can eventually turn into cancer.

Symptoms of Uterine Polyps

Some women experience no symptoms or may have light bleeding or spotting. Other symptoms include:

• Irregular menstrual bleeding
• Bleeding between menstrual periods
• Excessively heavy menstrual periods
• Vaginal bleeding after menopause
• Infertility

Treatment for Uterine Polyps

• Watchful waiting: Small polyps that don’t cause symptoms may go away on their own.
  
• Medication: Hormones such as progestins and gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists may shrink a uterine polyp and lessen symptoms.
  
• Curettage: To collect a specimen or remove a polyp, your doctor may scrape the inside walls of your uterus with a long metal instrument with a loop on the end.
  
• Surgery: Surgery may be required to remove polyps.