Treating uterine polyps at Texas Fertility Center New Braunfels

Uterine polyps (also called endometrial polyps) originate in the endometrial lining of the uterus. Although typically benign, there is a slight chance that these polyps can become cancerous.

Causes of uterine polyps

When pregnancy does not occur during a woman’s cycle, the lining of the uterus is shed, creating a menstrual period. Once the period is complete, estrogen and other hormones work to rebuild the uterine lining. If an overgrowth of endometrial tissue as a results of irregular periods, uterine polyps can develop.

Endometrial polyps are common in fertility patients and range in size from a few millimeters to the size of an orange. Risk factors include obesity, high blood pressure and a history of taking tamoxifen for the treatment of breast cancer.

Symptoms

Some uterine polyps produce no symptoms, but when symptoms are present, they may include:

• Irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Vaginal bleeding after menopause
• Infertility

Most polyps remain in the uterus, but it is possible for prolapsed endometrial polyps to protrude into the vagina.

Treatment

Small, asymptomatic polyps may require treatment in the presence of infertility because they may decrease the chances of pregnancy and increase the risk of miscarriage. Those linked to abnormal or heavy menstrual bleeding, or polyps that are cancerous or at risk of becoming cancerous, should be treated.

Hysteroscopic polypectomy is a surgical procedure performed using a lighted instrument that is passed through the vagina and cervix into the uterus. The polyps are identified and removed during the procedure. This procedure is performed under anesthesia and usually requires no incisions. A gynecologist should evaluate any abnormal uterine bleeding.

Board certified gynecologists and reproductive experts Dr. Susan Hudson specializes in fertility treatments for women who experience uterine polyps.

Take the first step today – contact Texas Fertility Center New Braunfels to schedule your appointment with Dr. Hudson.