Uterine Polyps Are Very Common, Should You Worry About Them?

Many women who develop uterine polyps have no idea they have this condition, yet these abnormal growths are very common. They develop on the endometrium and can be the size of a sesame seed—or they can develop to be the size of a golf ball. While this condition is often asymptomatic, you could also experience heavy bleeding, bleeding between periods, and infertility.

So, what’s the difference between fibroids and uterine polyps? Fibroids grow from fibromuscular tissue, whereas polyps grow inside the uterine cavity from the endometrium. Fibroids are hard, whereas polyps are soft. Polyps are often benign, whereas fibroids are almost always benign. However, both conditions share a common risk factor: high estrogen levels.

An ultrasound is usually the first step for diagnosis. You may also undergo a hysteroscopy, a procedure in which a tiny camera visually examines the uterus and performs an endometrial biopsy. This is an in-office procedure, so it helps you avoid something more invasive, as well as a hospital visit.

Asymptomatic polyps may not require any treatment, especially for women who have already gone through menopause. For women experiencing symptoms, including those struggling with infertility, they may want to have them removed. Addressing excess estrogen is the best way to address the underlying cause of polyps.

Progesterone can stabilize the uterine lining and stop it from growing further, thereby limiting the influence of excess estrogen. If you have abnormal bleeding, like especially long periods, short periods, very heavy flow, or very light flow, talk to your healthcare provider and find out if uterine polyps are affecting you.