Uterine polyps are tissue growths which is not normalin layer dthe lining of the uterus (endometrium). Most uterine polyps are benign, although some can develop into malignant or cancerous.
Uterine polyps can be round or oval, ranging in size from a sesame seed to the size of a golf ball. These lumps can be stemmed so that it looks hanging or growing wide on the uterine wall. This condition is more common in women who have entered menopause.
Causes of Uterine Polyps
The exact cause of uterine polyps is not known. However, this condition is closely related to changes in estrogen levels. In addition to changes in the hormone estrogen, there are a number of conditions that are thought to increase the risk of uterine polyps, namely:
- Entering the perimenopause and menopause phases.
- Experiencing obesity.
- Taking medication, such as tamoxifen.
- Have an inherited genetic disorder, such as Lynch syndrome or Cowden syndrome.
Symptoms of Uterine Polyps
The main symptom of uterine polyps is an irregular menstrual schedule. In addition, the following symptoms may also appear:
- Irregular menstrual cycle
- Excessive menstrual volume or durationmenorrhagia)
- Bleeding from the vagina between two menstrual cycles
- Spots and bleeding appear after menopause
- Bleeding after sex
- Difficulty or not being able to get pregnant (infertility)
Symptoms of uterine polyps can vary from woman to woman. There are some patients who do not even feel any symptoms.
When to go to the doctor
Immediately consult a doctor if you experience the symptoms of uterine polyps that have been mentioned above, especially if you are already menopausal. A doctor's examination is needed so that this disorder can be treated as early as possible. That way, the risk of complications due to uterine polyps can be prevented.
In addition, women who are obese or are taking medications for breast cancer are more at risk of developing uterine polyps. If you fall into this group, check with your doctor regularly to control your condition.
Diagnosis of uterine polyps
The doctor will ask about the complaints and symptoms experienced, the history of the disease that has been suffered by the patient and his family members, as well as the drugs that are being consumed. The doctor will also ask questions about menstruation, such as the cycle, duration, frequency, and volume. Questions about difficulty conceiving may also be asked.
Next, the doctor will perform a complete physical examination. To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor will perform additional examinations, such as:
- Transvaginal ultrasoundTransvaginal ultrasound using a wand-shaped device (ultrasound inducer) is inserted into the vagina. This tool emits sound waves which are then converted into a visual display on a computer screen, to look for possible abnormalities in the uterus, such as polyps.
- HysteroscopyHysteroscopy examination uses an instrument called a hysteroscope. This thin hose-shaped device is equipped with a light and camera at the end. A hysteroscope will be inserted into the uterus through the vagina to detect the presence of polyps.
- Uterine wall biopsyIn this procedure, the doctor will take a sample of tissue from the uterine wall. The sample is then further tested in the laboratory to determine the type of tissue, including whether it is potentially cancerous or not.
- CuretteCurettage is performed by inserting a metal rod with a hooked end into the uterus through the vagina to collect tissue samples. This procedure can also be used to remove polyps.
- SonohysterographySonohysterography is performed with the help of ultrasound and a special fluid is inserted into the uterus through a catheter. This procedure will make it easier for the doctor to see if there are abnormalities in the uterus, including the growth of polyps.
Before and after undergoing one of the investigations above, the doctor may prescribe medications such as drugs to dilate the cervix, antibiotics, and pain relievers.
Uterine Polyp Treatment
Steps to treat uterine polyps are only done when the patient experiences symptoms that are very disturbing, such as excessive menstrual bleeding, or if the polyps have the potential to become cancer.
In polyps that do not cause symptoms or are small, usually no special treatment is done. Even so, patients are still advised to have regular check-ups to monitor the condition and development of polyps.
If polyps cause problems, there are a number of treatments that doctors can do to treat them, namely:
Administration of drugs
Medicines to balance hormones, such as progestins and gonadotropins releasing hormone agonist, can relieve the symptoms of uterine polyps. However, this effect is temporary. Symptoms may reappear after the drug is stopped.
Hysteroscopy or curettage
Both procedures are performed to remove uterine polyps. Side effects that can occur after both measures are stomach cramps and light bleeding. Patients are advised not to have sex about 1-2 weeks after the procedure.
This treatment step is effective for treating small polyps and is usually chosen when uterine polyps are experienced by pregnant women or women who are planning a pregnancy.
Hysterectomy
If the polyp cannot be removed by other methods or if the polyp is cancerous tissue, a hysterectomy may be necessary. Hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the uterus.
Although rare, polyps can grow back later in life. Therefore, patients are advised to have their condition checked regularly.
Prevention of uterine polyps
Because the exact cause is unknown, uterine polyps cannot be completely prevented. However, you can do the following ways to reduce the risk of polyps:
- Implement a healthy and balanced diet with adequate nutrition.
- Do exercise regularly, at least 3 times a week.
- Maintain ideal body weight.
- Get regular checkups with your doctor, especially if you have certain genetic disorders, such as Lynch syndrome or Cowden syndrome.