Polyp of the uterus: How does it arise and what are its symptoms? Is it dangerous?

What is a polyp?

A polyp is a benign growth growing out of the lining of the uterus - the endometrium.

A uterine polyp is therefore also called an endometrial polyp. It is a structurally well-defined mass made up of clumps of cells in the lining of the uterus.

It is confined by the mucosa and does not extend into the surrounding myometrium - the uterine musculature.

The polyp is connected to the uterine mucosa by a pedicle. Depending on the type of pedicle, polyps are subsequently subdivided into adnexal (wide base) or pedicled (thin pedicle).

In some cases, a large number of different polyps may appear in the uterus at the same time.

Polyps can grow virtually anywhere on the mucous membranes in the human body. They most commonly appear on the mucous membranes of internal organs.

Among the most common are polyps on:

• mucous membranes of the nose
• the lining of the colon
• rectum
• the lining of the female uterus

Polyps on the uterus are most commonly found on the cervix and in the area of the inner mucosal wall that passes into the uterine cavity.

Safety and health risks of uterine polyps

Small growths that do not show any adverse symptoms and are also not at risk of cancer are usually only regularly examined by a gynaecologist using ultrasound.

In some cases, however, its removal is recommended because there is a risk of the polyp turning malignant.

A uterine polyp is not a dangerous formation, but the subsequent possible complications are a risk. If left untreated, a polyp can continue to grow, prevent pregnancy or cause hormonal imbalances.

The greatest risk is the transformation of the growth into a cancerous tumor.

Although a woman does not have any gynaecological problems, it is strongly recommended that she attend regular preventive check-ups with a gynaecologist. If there are unwanted and unclear symptoms, it is necessary to seek medical help immediately.

What is the difference between a polyp, a fibroid and a cyst?

A polyp is a benign growth on the mucous membrane.

A fibroid (myoma) is a benign growth growing from the salivary tissue of the uterus - the myometrium. A myoma is hard, unlike a soft polyp.

It occurs mainly in the wall of the muscularis or under the mucosa of the uterus.

A cyst is a sac, a cavity filled with a thin or thick fluid, usually located on the surface of the ovary. It is a benign tumor.

All the various uterine growths and formations can be diagnosed by intravaginal ultrasound and histological sampling during an examination by a gynecologist. Early diagnosis and early treatment is recommended.

Polyps occur mainly in women of reproductive age, but also before and after menopause.

The cause of polyps is not precisely determined, but the main risk factors are overgrowth of mucosal cells, recurrent pelvic inflammation and hormonal imbalance.

Risk factors for polyps:

• Period around menopause
• Excessive endometrial cell production
• Inflammation of the pelvic area
• Hormonal changes and imbalances
• Hormonal treatment
• High blood pressure
• Endocrine disorders
• Long-term excessive stress
• Weakened immune system
• Obesity

In many cases, a woman does not even know about the existence of a polyp. Often it is diagnosed during a preventive examination by a gynecologist.

One of the most common symptoms of a uterine polyp is irregular vaginal bleeding, excessive menstrual bleeding, off-cycle bleeding and possibly bleeding after intercourse.

With any unusual symptoms, it is necessary to see a gynaecologist.

The most common symptoms of uterine polyp:

• Irregular bleeding
• Bleeding outside the cycle
• Bleeding after intercourse
• Bleeding after menopause
• Prolonged menstruation
• Problem getting pregnant
• Pain in the lower abdomen

The main diagnostic element is an examination by a gynecologist.

The doctor will use ultrasound of the surface of the abdomen and internal intravaginal ultrasound through a vaginal probe. Ultrasound sends sound waves and creates images of the structures of the genital organ under examination.

The gynaecologist usually takes histological samples. The material to be examined is a tissue sample obtained by tissue biopsy. This laboratory method excludes the malignant nature of the growth of the uterine lining.

Using the diagnostic method of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the exact location, characteristics, development and stage of the polyp can be determined. MRI is usually performed when a malignant type of polyp is suspected.

In addition, a special intravaginal ultrasound method, hystersonography, can be used, in which a small amount of saline is injected into the uterus using a catheter.

This solution allows the doctor to better visualize the structures and formations of the uterine cavity under examination.

Prevention of uterine polyp

The prevention of the growth of uterine polyps, fibroids, cysts and other uterine growths is not well known. Regular preventive examinations by a gynaecologist are the basis of prevention.

Tips for preventing polyp formation:

• Preventive check-ups at the gynaecologist
• Prevention of endocrine disorders
• A strong immune system
• Elimination of hormonal treatment
• Treatment and prevention of pelvic inflammatory disease
• Avoidance of a promiscuous life
• Healthy wholesome diet
• Elimination of pelvic and pelvic floor muscle imbalances

Polyp of the uterus and pregnancy

A polyp can complicate the conception of a child by its steady growth and character. An untreated polyp alters the condition of the uterine lining, which can have a negative effect on the fertilized egg nesting in the uterine lining.

It is therefore advisable to consult a gynaecologist to rule out complications of the polyp in relation to conception and subsequent pregnancy.

In some cases, a polyp may appear during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. The gynaecologist will determine the next course of action to address the problem based on the individual patient's health.

It is necessary to investigate and evaluate the possible risks of carrying a child with a polyp and the risks associated with removing the polyp during pregnancy.