Endometrial polyps: what are they, causes, prevention

A benign formation in the uterine cavity in the inner layer of the endometrium is called a polyp. A polyp may not cause any unpleasant symptoms, and is often found accidentally during an examination. Several polyps can form at the same time or at intervals of time.

What is an endometrial polyp

A polyp is a body on a stalk or broad base. Nutrition comes through a vessel that runs inside the structure. The presence of a polyp can be manifested by pain and heaviness in the lower abdomen, increased volume in this area, discomfort during intercourse, abundant discharge during menstruation. A polyp is detected during an ultrasound examination. Accurate diagnosis is necessary, since similar symptoms can also occur with other pathologies.

Polyps are distinguished by the type of tissue from which they are formed:

• Adenomatous - the result of cellular degeneration, can develop into a cancerous tumor.
• Glandular - formed from stromal cells and contain glands in small numbers. Often appear in young girls.
• Fibrous - growing out of connective tissue. Are found more often in women after 45 years.
• Glandular-fibrous - stem of fibrous tissue, the body - from the glandular.

Polyps can be small, medium and large. The maximum size is 8 cm. Such formations deliver discomfort.

Why do polyps develop in the endometrium

Causes of formation of endometrial polyps:

• Inflammation in the uterus and ovaries.
• Chronic infections in the genital area.
• Trauma during childbirth, abortions, cleanings.
• Disorders of other organs, especially the liver and hormonal glands.
• Adverse environmental conditions, stress, inadequate nutrition, the presence of harmful substances in the diet indirectly contribute to the appearance of tumors.
• Reduced immunity.

There is a predisposition to endometrial overgrowth in ovarian dysfunction due to an increase in estrogen levels. Hormonal disorders lead to this: diabetes mellitus, thyroid disease. Increased risk in people with excessive body weight.

Organ disorders can also create the conditions for the growth of polyps. Studies have shown that a third of patients with polyps have liver disorders. If there are spasms of ducts and sphincter of Oddi, there is chronic stagnation of bile in the liver and gallbladder. Estrogens accumulate in the liver. This provokes disturbances in the functions of the ovaries and uterus. 

Uterine polyps are often diagnosed simultaneously with other disorders - polycystic ovaries, uterine fibroma and mastopathy. These diseases are also caused by estrogenism.

After removal of the polyp, it can grow again in the same place. Such formations are called recurrent. This means that the causes that cause polyposis are not eliminated. It is necessary to continue consultations with your doctor. He may change the method of treatment or some of the medications.

The prevention of polyps will be the restoration of the GI tract, especially the liver and biliary, the timely treatment of gynecological inflammations. It is important to minimize the likelihood of endometrial trauma during examinations and certain types of contraception. It is worth checking the work of all systems of the body, choose a suitable diet and minimize stress if possible.