Uterine Fibroids and Polyps
Overview
Unplanned changes in your menstrual cycle or unfamiliar pelvic discomfort can be unsettling. Figuring out the cause can feel daunting, especially with conditions like fibroids and polyps that share some similarities.
Dr Salem El Shawarby, our well-established gynaecologist and Consultant in reproductive medicine in Abu Dhabi and UAE, offers end-to-end guidance regarding polyps in uterus, the symptoms they might cause, and the treatment options available.
Fibroids and Polyps
Fibroids and polyps are generally non-cancerous growths in a woman’s uterus. Despite their benign nature, they may cause issues such as infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss. Additionally, women may experience pelvic pain, pressure, or alterations in their menstrual cycles due to fibroids.
What are Fibroids?
Fibroids are usually benign tumours that develop from the smooth muscle of the uterus. They are categorized based on their location in the uterus: within the uterine wall, extending into the uterine cavity, or on the surface of the uterus.
What are Uterine Polyps?
Uterine Polyps are growths that occur in the inner lining of the uterus, also known as the endometrium. These polyps, sometimes referred to as endometrial polyps, form due to an overgrowth of endometrial tissue. They attach to the endometrium by a thin stalk or a broad base and extend into the uterine cavity. Polyps can vary in size from a few millimetres (like a sesame seed) to several centimetres (similar to a golf ball) or even larger. It is possible to have one or multiple polyps.
Although uterine polyps are typically benign, they can cause menstrual irregularities and fertility issues.
When the condition is severe and is creating acute hindrance in your gynaecological system, uterus polyps removal surgery may be suggested by the doctor.
Symptoms of Polyps in Uterus
Some of the various symptoms of uterine polyps may include:
- Abnormal bleeding
- Irregular menstrual periods with unpredictable timing and flow
- Unusually heavy menstrual flow
- Bleeding or spotting between periods
- Infertility, which can involve difficulty becoming pregnant, miscarriage or carrying a pregnancy to term
- Bleeding after intercourse
Fibroids Treatment in Abu Dhabi
Fibroid options can be divided into non-surgical and surgical approaches. Non-surgical treatments include medications to regulate hormones, reduce symptoms, or shrink fibroids, such as GnRH agonists, birth control pills.
The surgical approach may include Uterine artery embolization. It is a minimally invasive process that shrinks the fibroids and blocks the blood flow towards them. Surgical options range from Myomectomy, which removes the fibroids while preserving the uterus, to hysterectomy, the complete removal of the uterus. The choice of treatment varies as per factors like the severity of symptoms, the size and location of the fibroids, and the patient’s desire or not for future pregnancies.
Uterine Polyp Treatment
Methods of treatment include:
- Polypectomy: This is a uterus polyps removal surgery performed through hysteroscopy. This procedure enables the gynaecology surgeon to both visualize and remove the polyp simultaneously. The removed tissue can then be sent to the histopathology lab for testing to check for any signs of cancer.
Struggling with polyps or fibroids in the uterus and desire fertility?
If you’re dealing with uterine polyps, fibroids and want to get pregnant then seeking the right treatment is crucial for you. Dr Salem El Shawarby, an experienced professional in the field, helps you with expert care and effective treatment tailored to your needs.
