Here we will introduce you to Endometrial Hyperplasia. It's a disease which may not be discussed as much as other vaginal diseases. But if it's left untreated, it can lead to other serious illnesses.
What Is Endometrial Hyperplasia
Endometrial hyperplasia is when the uterine lining, or endometrium, becomes thicker than normal.
The endometrium is the inner lining of the uterus. The organ in a female's reproductive system that holds and nourishes a fertilised egg. Endometrial hyperplasia occurs when cells in the lining or endometrium grow and divide more rapidly than normal. This leads to an increase in the thickness and weight of the tissue.
A thickened endometrium does not equal cancer but can lead to other problems if left untreated. For example, it may lead to endometrial cancer if left untreated for many years.
What Are the Types of Endometrial Hyperplasia
Endometrial hyperplasia is a condition of the uterus that occurs when the endometrium (the lining of your uterus) grows too much. There are two main types of endometrial hyperplasia:
Simple Endometrial Hyperplasia (Without Atypia)
It is described as benign endometrium growth with no atypia. This means it just looks like regular tissue, and there's no sign that it would ever become cancerous. This type of endometrial hyperplasia can be managed with hormone therapy or ablation procedures, but it does not require surgery for treatment.
Simple or Complex Atypical Endometrial Hyperplasia
This is a precancerous condition that can turn into cancer if it isn't treated. It's important to get treated as soon as possible.
Is Endometrial Hyperplasia Common
Endometrial hyperplasia is when the endometrium grows too much. It's the tissue that lines the uterus. A thickened endometrium is not uncommon, but it can be dangerous if left untreated.
This condition is most common in older women who are perimenopausal or menopausal. But it can also occur in younger women who use certain types of birth control. It's also possible to develop endometrial hyperplasia without any known cause.
What Causes Endometrial Hyperplasia
Endometrial hyperplasia is a condition that affects the uterus. It causes the uterus's endometrium, or inner layer, to grow abnormally.
An imbalance of hormones in your body can cause this condition. Hormones are chemical messengers that travel through your blood and control different processes in your body. These processes include developing reproductive organs, growing hair and muscle tissue, and regulating blood pressure.
Hormonal imbalances can occur due to the following:
- ageing
- pregnancy
- use of some medications, such as birth control pills
- or abnormal functioning of the pituitary gland (a small gland located at the base of the brain)
What Is the Normal Range of Endometrial Thickness
The normal range for endometrial thickness is 3 to 7 millimetres. However, this varies from person to person.
Endometrial thickness refers to the amount of tissue that lines a woman's uterus. Ultrasound can measure it during a routine pelvic exam or an infertility evaluation.
Some women may have thicker endometria than others, which factors like age, hormonal changes, and other medical conditions can influence.
Symptoms of Endometrial Hyperplasia
Endometrial hyperplasia is a condition where the lining of your uterus grows too much. It can be caused by an imbalance in estrogen and progesterone, leading to the thickening of the endometrium. The symptoms are:
- Vaginal bleeding between periods
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Irregular menstrual periods
- Abnormal uterine bleeding (bleeding after menopause)
If you're experiencing symptoms of endometrial hyperplasia, it's important to see a doctor before they worsen. Many types of endometrial hyperplasia exist; some can be treated with medication or surgery. Others require lengthy treatment plans or even removal of your uterus (hysterectomy). You should see a doctor if you notice any of the symptoms above and the following:
- Spotting after sex
- Vaginal discharge that smells bad or has an unusual texture
Complications of Endometrial Hyperplasia
The endometrium is the lining of your uterus, and it helps to support and protect the foetus during pregnancy.
Endometrial hyperplasia can cause the formation of polyps, which are small growths on the uterine wall that can be benign or cancerous.
The main complication of endometrial hyperplasia is cancer. If you have this condition, you have a higher risk of developing uterine cancer later in life.
Diagnosing Endometrial Hyperplasia
Endometrial hyperplasia is when the uterus's endometrium, or inner lining, grows abnormally. If you have it, please take note that it can cause heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding, which can be very painful.
Your doctor will conduct a physical exam and consider your medical history. This includes discussing your symptoms and asking about any family history of endometrial cancer or other reproductive health issues.
Here’s how doctors diagnose endometrial hyperplasia:
Ultrasound
Ultrasound is the most common way to diagnose endometrial hyperplasia. An ultrasound uses sound waves to generate images of your uterus and other reproductive organs.
An ultrasound can help determine whether you have endometrial hyperplasia by measuring your uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. Your doctor may also take a biopsy sample of your uterine lining to confirm the diagnosis.
Biopsy
Endometrial hyperplasia is a condition in which the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) becomes too thick. When this happens, it can cause irregular bleeding and an increased risk of endometrial cancer.
To diagnose this disease, your doctor will perform a biopsy, which involves taking tissue samples inside the uterus and examining them under a microscope. The endometrial tissue should be analysed to determine whether it has become too thick or if there is any sign of cancerous cells.
Hysteroscope
To diagnose, doctors will use a hysteroscope—a thin tube with a light on one end that allows them to see inside your uterus—to look for signs of the condition. As part of this exam, they may also take a sample from your uterine lining to test for precancerous cells or cancer itself.
Treatment Options for Endometrial Hyperplasia
The treatment for endometrial hyperplasia depends on the severity of the condition. Typically, a doctor will recommend an endometrial ablation, in which the uterine lining is destroyed by heat, cold, or chemicals. This procedure can be performed in an outpatient setting and is usually done on an outpatient basis. Other treatment options include:
- Prescription medications
- Hormone therapy
- Surgical removal of endometrial tissue
In some cases, your physician may also recommend a hysterectomy. This is a surgery that involves removing your uterus entirely. It's generally only recommended if you have severe symptoms or have received treatment that didn't work well enough to control them.
How to Prevent Endometrial Hyperplasia
Endometrial hyperplasia is a condition in which the lining of your uterus grows too much. It's most common in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).
You can reduce your risk of developing endometrial hyperplasia by making lifestyle changes and taking medications. Some of these include:
- Avoiding excess body weight or obesity
- Exercising regularly
- Eating a healthy diet that's low in fat and sugar but high in fibre and protein
- Taking medications
The prognosis for people who have this condition is generally very good. However, there are some cases where the condition can progress to cancer. This can happen when there is a change in how the cells look or behave. If you have endometrial hyperplasia, you must inform your doctor immediately if you notice any changes in yourself or your symptoms.
In conclusion, endometrial hyperplasia is a common and treatable condition. If you are experiencing symptoms mentioned above, the best thing you can do is see your doctor. Your doctor can perform tests to determine if you have this condition and recommend treatment options.
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