Uterine (Endometrial) Polyps - Diagnosis & Treatment

How are uterine (endometrial) polyps diagnosed?

Your doctor may diagnose uterine polyps using one of the following tests:

Transvaginal ultrasound. It involves the insertion of a thin handheld device known as an ultrasound transducer into the vagina. The device produces sound waves and provides images of the inside of your uterus.
Sonohysterography. It involves administering fluid into the uterus through a catheter or a thin tube. This expands the uterus and helps to provide clear pictures of the uterus during a transvaginal ultrasound.
Hysteroscopy. It involves the insertion of a hysteroscope through your vagina and cervix into the uterus, and allows the doctor to see the inside of your uterus.
Endometrial biopsy. A suction catheter is used to collect a specimen of polyp tissue for lab testing to check for cancer cells.
Curettage. Using a curette (a long metal tool with a small hoop on one end), the doctor removes a tissue sample of a polyp and sends it for laboratory analysis.

Endometrial polyp size

While some studies suggest that uterine polyps larger than 1.5cm in diameter may have an increased risk of malignancy, there is inconclusive evidence to prove that all polyps measuring this size are cancerous.

How are endometrial polyps treated?

Treatment depends on the size of the polyp, your symptoms, age, and overall health. Your doctor may recommend one of the following options:

Vigilant waiting. If you have small polyps and no symptoms, treatment may not be necessary. Some polyps may resolve on their own over time. However, regular follow-up may be advised to monitor for changes.

Medications. Hormonal medications may be prescribed to help regulate hormone levels and relieve symptoms. These are usually a temporary measure, as symptoms may return once the medication is stopped.

Minimally invasive surgery. Endometrial polyps can be removed surgically, often during a diagnostic procedure such as a hysteroscopy. One common method is Transcervical Resection of a Polyp (TCRP) — a minimally invasive surgical procedure where the polyp is removed through the cervix using specialised instruments, without any external incisions.

Minimally invasive surgery is more likely to be recommended if:

Symptoms persist or worsen
You are post-menopausal
There is a higher risk of uterine cancer

Hysterectomy. If cancer cells are found in the polyp, your doctor may recommend a hysterectomy (surgical removal of the entire uterus) or other appropriate treatment options, depending on your individual condition.

Symptoms & Causes

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