Discover how uterine polyps can affect a woman’s fertility and health

Our Connecticut fertility center provides high-quality care to patients with uterine polyps, also called endometrial polyps. These polyps often develop in the lining of the uterus and are usually benign, or non-cancerous.

Polyps are an overgrowth of the lining of the uterus and can result in irregular periods. These growths can vary in size from a few millimeters to the size of an orange. While polyps typically grow in the uterus, it is possible for them to protrude into the vagina.

Common symptoms and diagnosis of uterine polyps

There are various symptoms that indicate a woman may have uterine polyps.

• Irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Vaginal bleeding after menopause
• Infertility because endometrial polyps can affect an embryo’s ability to implant

A woman has a higher risk of developing these polyps if she is obese, has high blood pressure or has taken tamoxifen for breast cancer. Polyps are also more common among perimenopausal and postmenopausal women.

If Andrew Levi MD at our Connecticut fertility center suspects that a woman has endometrial polyps, he may perform a transvaginal ultrasound. In some cases, he may perform in-office hysteroscopy to get a closer look at the polyps. These diagnostic tools allow him to assess the polyps and determine the proper treatment.

Find effective treatment for endometrial polyps

If Dr. Levi at our Connecticut fertility center believes a woman’s endometrial polyps are affecting her fertility, he might recommend removing the growths. A hysteroscopy is a common treatment for uterine polyps.

A hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that consists of an anesthesiologist administering IV sedation. The doctor then passes a thin, lighted telescope through the woman’s vagina and cervix into the uterus. Next, he injects gas or fluid to expand the uterus and improve visibility.

Using the images from the telescope, the doctor can locate the polyps. He then introduces instruments that allow him to remove the growths.

Most women quickly recover from this procedure, and usually only experience minimal vaginal bleeding and mild cramping. Women can return home shortly after the procedure.

This treatment often allows women to bypass the challenges of polyps. Many women then go on to carry a healthy pregnancy. Contact us to learn more about our fertility services.