Uterine Polyps

Uterine polyps are growths in the inner lining of your uterus (endometrium). They’re sometimes called endometrial polyps.

Uterine polyps form when there’s an overgrowth of endometrial tissue. The polyp attaches to the endometrium by a thin stalk or a broad base and extends into your uterus. Polyps may be round or oval and range in size from a few millimeters (the size of a sesame seed) to a few centimeters (the size of a golf ball) or larger. You may have one or several polyps present.

Uterine polyps are usually benign (noncancerous), but they may cause problems with periods (menstruation) or your ability to have children (fertility).

Who is affected by uterine polyps?

Age is a major predictor of polyps. You’re most likely to develop uterine polyps in your 40s and 50s, around the time when you’re approaching menopause (perimenopause). Uterine polyps can occur after menopause (postmenopause), but they rarely affect people under 20 years old.

Your chance of developing uterine polyps also increases if you:

• Have overweight (BMI 25 < 30) or obese (BMI > 30).
• Have high blood pressure (hypertension).
• Take tamoxifen, a drug that’s used to treat breast cancer.
• Receive hormone replacement therapy that involves a high dosage of estrogen.

You’re at greater risk of getting uterine polyps if you have Lynch syndrome or Cowden syndrome.

Are uterine polyps common?

It’s difficult to tell. Uterine polyps are sometimes asymptomatic, meaning they don’t cause symptoms. For this reason, many people with uterine polyps may never receive a diagnosis. Research does suggest that polyps are more common in certain populations. For instance, they’re more common in people who’ve gone through menopause than those who haven’t.