Causes of endometrial polyps

Written by Sun Shan Shan
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on February 06, 2025
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There are many causes of endometrial polyps. One is the excessive secretion of estrogen in the body, leading to an uneven distribution of hormone levels. Furthermore, long-term use of health products and hormone medications can stimulate their development, as can gynecological inflammations from events like abortion, childbirth, or surgical procedures, all of which can lead to the formation of endometrial polyps. Additionally, high blood pressure and obesity are also high-risk factors for endometrial polyps. Therefore, it’s crucial to carry out a timely hysteroscopic examination once endometrial polyps are detected. This examination should take place three to seven days after menstruation at a hospital. If the polyps are larger than one centimeter in diameter, or if there is continuous vaginal bleeding, an immediate hysteroscopic polypectomy is necessary.

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Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can endometrial polyps recur?

Endometrial polyps are a common gynecological condition. Generally, when detected, endometrial polyps need to be surgically removed. After treatment, there is still a chance of recurrence of endometrial polyps, although the chance is not particularly high. Some patients may have a higher chance of recurrence, which varies from person to person. If endometrial polyps recur, further surgical treatment may be necessary. Under normal circumstances, oral medication can be administered post-surgery to help possibly prevent the recurrence of endometrial polyps. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Zhang Lu
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Difference between endometrial polyps and cervical polyps

Endometrial polyps and cervical polyps are two types of reproductive system polyps that are relatively common in women. Their differences lie in the following aspects: First, the location of the polyps is different. Endometrial polyps are located inside the uterine cavity, whereas cervical polyps grow in the cervical canal or on the external cervix. Second, the symptoms caused by each are different. Cervical polyps may cause symptoms or tend to cause abnormal vaginal bleeding outside of menstruation. In contrast, endometrial polyps typically lead to increased menstrual flow and generally do not cause bleeding outside of menstruation. Third, the examination methods are not completely the same. Endometrial polyps are primarily diagnosed through ultrasound, while cervical polyps are mainly checked through gynecological examination.

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Written by Yue Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to investigate endometrial polyps?

Endometrial polyps require an ultrasound examination to be detected, as they are located within the uterine cavity and cannot be seen by a gynecological examination alone. Under ultrasound, one can see a polyp-like object in the uterine cavity, which usually measures only a few millimeters, although some may be about ten or more millimeters in size. Certainly, if possible, a hysteroscopy can also identify them. However, generally, an ultrasound is conducted first to observe the endometrial polyps, followed by a hysteroscopy to remove them.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can uterine polyps disappear on their own?

Endometrial polyps are generally located in the uterine cavity. Some endometrial polyps may be expelled during menstruation, as each menstrual period involves the shedding of the endometrial lining, causing some small polyps to disappear after menstruation. However, if the endometrial polyps persist and are relatively large, causing irregular bleeding, excessive menstrual flow, or affecting pregnancy, it might be necessary to perform a hysteroscopy for examination and treatment, and to send samples for pathological testing.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
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Can you get pregnant with endometrial polyps?

Endometrial polyps can affect pregnancy, but it does not mean that conception is impossible. Rather, it means that the chances of becoming pregnant may decrease. Endometrial polyps can affect the lining of the uterus and thereby hinder the implantation of a fertilized egg after the sperm and egg have combined. Even if fertilization and implantation occur in the uterus, miscarriage is more likely to happen. Therefore, when endometrial polyps occur, treatment can be administered based on the size and extent of the polyps. If the condition is mild with few and small polyps that do not affect pregnancy, conception is still possible.