Polyp Removal Surgeries

While abnormal or heavy vaginal bleeding may be linked to a variety of conditions, these are also possible symptoms of uterine polyps. These growths aren’t usually harmful but may interfere with fertility and lead to discomfort. Discover insights on uterine polyps, including their symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options, with the guidance of Dr. Sunita Arora. As a reputable Obstetrician, Gynecologist, and Fertility Specialist in Delhi, Dr. Arora offers comprehensive expertise to help you understand and address this condition effectively.

Uterine polyp

A uterine (endometrial) polyp is a small, fleshy growth that can develop along the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium). On average, these polyps are less than 1 cm, but it’s also possible to have more than one.

Determining the prevalence of uterine polyps can be challenging. These growths are occasionally asymptomatic, which doesn't always produce noticeable symptoms. Consequently, many individuals with uterine polyps may remain undiagnosed. However, studies indicate that certain groups are more likely to develop polyps. For example, they are more frequently observed in individuals who have undergone menopause than those who haven't.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of uterine polyps is not fully understood, but high estrogen levels may contribute to their development.

• Obesity is also considered a risk factor due to the higher amounts of estrogen released by body fat cells.
• Age may also play a role, with the incidence of uterine polyps peaking between ages 40 and 49. Additionally, postmenopausal women taking tamoxifen therapy may be at increased risk.
• Endometrial hyperplasia is characterized by abnormal growth of the uterine lining.
• Overexpression of aromatase, an enzyme present in the uterine lining.
• Potential genetic factors contributing to the tendency to develop these troublesome polyps

Symptoms

The primary indicator of uterine polyps is abnormal bleeding, encompassing vaginal bleeding post-menopause and irregular menstrual cycles. Typically, menstrual periods last between four to seven days, with a regular cycle recurring every 28 days, albeit variations can range from 21 to 35 days. Many individuals with uterine polyps experience irregular periods.

Symptoms associated with uterine polyps include:

• Irregular menstrual cycles are characterized by unpredictable timing and flow.
• Excessive bleeding during menstruation is referred to as heavy menstrual bleeding.
• Bleeding or spotting occurring between periods is known as intermenstrual bleeding.
• Infertility manifests as difficulties in conceiving or maintaining a pregnancy to term.
• Vaginal spotting or bleeding post-menopause, often appearing as red, pink, or brown blood.
• Bleeding following sexual intercourse.

In some cases, uterine polyps may be incidentally discovered by Dr. Sunita Arora during procedures intended to diagnose other conditions. Additionally, polyps may occasionally protrude or slip through the cervix, the passage connecting the vagina and the uterus, which could allow for visual identification during a physical examination.

How are polyps detected if most women don't exhibit symptoms?

In many cases, polyps are identified through ultrasound imaging. They are most likely to be discernible during the late follicular phase, when the standard uterine lining appears darkest on ultrasound, contrasting with the bright white appearance of the polyp due to its vascular core. Occasionally, flat polyps may be more elusive, prompting the utilization of a saline sonogram. This specialized ultrasound technique involves infusing sterile salt water into the uterus to enhance the visualization of the uterine lining contours. While technically demanding, the saline sonogram is generally well-tolerated by patients and can be performed in the office without sedation.

Diagnosis

If uterine polyps are suspected, diagnostic procedures such as hysteroscopy and transvaginal ultrasound may be performed. An endometrial biopsy may also be conducted to analyze tissue samples for cancerous cells and rule out other conditions causing similar symptoms.

When should I schedule an appointment with Dr. Sunita Arora?

You should make an appointment with Dr. Sunita Arora if you notice:

• Vaginal bleeding or spotting after menopause.
• Vaginal bleeding or spotting when you're not menstruating.
• Menstrual bleeding that is notably heavy or irregular

What is the likelihood of uterine polyps being cancerous?

Approximately 5% of uterine polyps are cancerous. The risk of a polyp being cancerous increases if you are postmenopausal or if you are experiencing abnormal bleeding. Sometimes, benign polyps may resemble uterine cancer (endometrial sarcomas) or precancerous conditions (endometrial hyperplasia). If there is uncertainty, Dr. Sunita Arora will conduct a biopsy to confirm the presence or absence of cancer.

How are uterine polyps managed?

Treatment approaches hinge on your symptoms and other factors that may elevate the risk of uterine cancer. If you're still in your reproductive years and the polyp isn't symptomatic, Dr. Sunita Arora might opt for monitoring rather than immediate treatment, as polyps sometimes resolve spontaneously. Conversely, if you've entered menopause or if the polyps provoke symptoms, treatment may be necessary.

Treatment modalities encompass

• Medications: Hormone-balancing drugs, such as progestins or gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists, may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms. However, symptoms often recur upon discontinuation of the medication.
• Uterine polypectomy: This procedure involves removing polyps. Typically conducted via hysteroscopy, your provider can precisely visualize and excise (cut) the polyps. This method ensures accuracy, allowing simultaneous visualization and removal of the polyp. Tissue samples are then sent to a laboratory for analysis to detect any signs of cancer.

In cases where a polyp is found to be cancerous, additional surgery may be necessary. A hysterectomy involving the removal of the uterus might be recommended if the polyps contain cancerous cells.

Does the removal of uterine polyps cause pain?

Dr. Sunita Arora will administer medications before the procedure to ensure you don't experience pain during surgery. However, you may still feel mild pulling or pressure.

What is the Recovery Time After Uterine Polyp Removal?

If you're curious about the recovery process following uterine polyp removal, rest assured that the procedure typically lasts about an hour and is performed on an outpatient basis, allowing you to return home on the same day. While concerns about recovery time are common among patients, the recovery period is generally brief. Following a single polypectomy, most individuals can resume work the day after the procedure and anticipate complete recovery within two weeks.

Uterine polyps are common, benign growths that can cause symptoms such as abnormal vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain. While they are typically not harmful, proper diagnosis and treatment are essential to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. If you experience any unusual symptoms, it’s crucial to consult with Dr. Sunita Arora for proper evaluation and management. With appropriate treatment, most individuals with uterine polyps can experience relief from symptoms and maintain their reproductive health.