- MEDICINE ATHENS MED4WOMAN ATHENS
- MEDICINE VOLOS MED4WOMAN VOLOS
Obstetrician - Gynaecologist
Doctor of Medicine, University of Athens Medical School
Panagiotis Polyzos, Gynaecologist Obstetrician, is active at the Institute of Life - IVF Unit of Iaso Maternity Hospital.
Uterine polyps are abnormal, excessive growths (hyperplasia) of the glands and stroma of the uterus that extend inward and protrude into the uterine cavity. The overgrowth of endometrial cells leads to the formation of uterine polyps, also known as endometrial polyps. These polyps are usually benign, although some may be cancerous or can eventually become malignant (precancerous polyps). Uterine polyps range in size from a few millimeters — as small as a sesame seed — to several centimeters — similar to the size of a golf ball or larger. They may attach to the uterine wall by a broad base or a thin stalk.
A woman may have one or multiple uterine polyps. They are most commonly found in the uterine cavity, but in some cases, they may occur in the cervix and even the vagina. Uterine polyps most often appear in women who are going through or have completed menopause, although younger women may also develop them.
Symptoms of uterine polyps may include:
Hormonal factors appear to play a major role. Uterine polyps are estrogen-dependent, meaning they grow in response to circulating estrogen.
Risk factors for developing uterine polyps include:
Uterine polyps may be associated with infertility. If you have uterine polyps and are struggling to conceive, removing them may improve the chances of pregnancy — although scientific data remains mixed.
If your doctor suspects uterine polyps, one or more of the following diagnostic tests may be performed:
Most uterine polyps are benign. However, some precancerous endometrial changes (endometrial hyperplasia) or endometrial cancer may initially appear as polyps. Your doctor will likely recommend polyp removal so the tissue can be examined to rule out cancer.
Depending on your condition, your doctor may recommend:
In rare cases, polyps may recur. The use of a hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) that causes endometrial thinning or an endometrial ablation using diathermy (for women who no longer wish to become pregnant).
In women undergoing tamoxifen treatment, management is more complex and must be carefully individualized.
