Uterine polyps are often harmless growths that hang from or attach broadly to the uterine wall. They can be small or large and may be asymptomatic or cause symptoms, such as heavy bleeding, irregular periods, and pain during sex.

Uterine Polyps: Do They Always Need Removal?

When a gynecologist in Thane tells you have an abnormal growth of tissue, or uterine polyps, inside your uterus, your mind might instantly think about cancer. Before you jump to the worst conclusions, know that uterine polyps are more common than people think, and in many cases, they are harmless. 

Research shows that approximately 24% of women have uterine polyps. This post answers your common questions, such as what causes polyps, when uterine polyps might be dangerous, and what’s the most effective treatment. Keep reading.

Understanding Uterine Polyps: What are They?

Uterine polyps are growths in the endometrium, the inner wall of the uterus. They might hang from the stem or attach directly to the wall. Their size can vary from tiny sesame seeds to larger ones, almost as big as a golf ball.

The growth is more common in people undergoing or have completed menopause, although anyone, including younger women, can get them too. 

Uterine polyps are, in most cases, non-cancerous, but a few can contain precancerous cells, which is why gynecologists often recommend having them evaluated. 

Symptoms and Causes of Uterine Polyps

The exact cause of a uterine polyp is still not known, but experts believe that hormonal factors might play a role. Estrogen thickens your uterine lining every month. Certain parts might over-respond to this hormone and result in polyp formation. Overweight or obese people are also at an increased risk, as more body fat can produce larger amounts of estrogen. 

Symptoms

Many polyps are asymptomatic. That’s the biggest reason many women never know they have uterine polyps until one is accidentally found during routine medical evaluations. 

If symptoms do occur, abnormal bleeding is often the most common clue. Here are some other common symptoms:

  • Abnormal menstrual bleeding
  • Spotting between periods
  • Vaginal bleeding after menopause
  • Bleeding after sexual intercourse
  • Difficulty conceiving 
  • Irregular periods

Mild pelvic discomfort is another sign of uterine polyps, especially if the polyps are large.

When Can Uterine Polyps Become Dangerous?

As mentioned before, uterine polyps are mostly harmless and treatable. However, it’s better not to ignore them entirely, as some can be precancerous growths. The risk is, particularly, higher in women who have:

  • Abnormal bleeding
  • A very large polyp
  • Other risk factors, such as obesity or hormonal disorders
  • Reached menopause

Even if these risk factors are present, it doesn’t necessarily mean the polyps are highly likely to be cancerous. You just need a proper medical evaluation.

When Uterine Polyps Need Removal

Not all polyps require removal. Uterine polyps treatment in Thane is generally advised if:

  • You experience abnormal bleeding 
  • You can’t get pregnant
  • Uterine polyps are detected after menopause
  • The polyps seem extraordinarily large

Hysteroscopic polypectomy is the most effective way to remove polyps. It doesn’t involve large abdominal incisions or any invasive removal technique, just gentle insertion of the instruments through the vagina.