Endometrial polyps - an Impediment to a Successful Pregnancy

Uterine problems can sometimes affect fertility. Uterine polyps or endometrial polyps are localized overgrowth of tissues in the endometrium lining of the uterus that protrude into the uterine cavity. They may occur alone or in clusters. The precise causes leading to their development are not clearly defined. They are believed to form spontaneously due to hormonal factors or as a result of too much estrogen.

Polyp overgrowth in the uterine cavity may interfere with implantation and fertility by preventing the egg from implanting into the endometrial wall after it is fertilized. Also if the polyps are located near the area where the fallopian tube is connected with the uterus it will disable the sperm from entering the uterus.

Polyps can be identified by HSG or vaginal ultrasound. The incidence of these polyps rises with increasing age, is at its peak in the fifth decade, and gradually declines after menopause.

The smaller categories of polyps which are a few millimeters do not impact reproductive capabilities. However large polyps can interfere with reproduction by impacting implantation and fertility. There is also an increased possibility of miscarriages.

Symptoms and Treatment

Most women with endometrial polyps face no symptoms. Some others face irregular menstrual bleeding or excessive bleeding. Thus, abnormal bleeding episodes are the most common presenting factor related to the presence of endometrial polyps.

Some polyps disappear on their own. When removal becomes necessary, endometrial polyps are cured thorough curettage, specifically hysteroscopic-guided curettage. This technique, which involves removing the endometrial lining of the uterus, is especially successful in women who fall in the post-menopausal age group. Larger polyps are removed under general anesthesia to control possible bleeding. If numerous polyps are found, a hysterectomy may be recommended.

Women who get their uterine polyps removed are usually able to get pregnant thereafter with reduced risk of a miscarriage. If a woman undergoing IVF treatment is detected with uterine polyps, embryo transfer is recommended only after polyp removal.

At East Bay Fertility Center, California, couples dealing with infertility get access to the latest technology and comprehensive consultation with a reproductive endocrinologist and fertility specialists. At the Center, a hysteroscopy would be recommended if a patient's history or sonogram findings indicate the presence of a polyp or scar tissue inside the uterus. This is a minor procedure involving the passing of a small telescope through the cervix so the doctor can directly visualize the uterine cavity and remove the abnormal tissue.

East Bay specializes in providing infertility treatments such as in-vitro fertilization, insemination, Intracytoplasmic sperm injection, egg donation and gestational surrogacy. Call 925.828.9235 for a free initial consultation.