We can help when uterine polyps interfere with a patient’s fertility
The Indianapolis fertility doctors at our clinic provide high-quality care for patients with uterine polyps. Polyps can develop in the endometrial lining of the uterus, and they are usually benign. In rare cases, the polyps can be cancerous.
Polyps are an overgrowth of the lining of the uterus. They can vary in size from a few millimeters to the size of an orange. While these growths commonly develop in the uterus, it’s possible for them to protrude into the vagina.
Typical symptoms and tests for uterine polyps
Uterine polyps can cause a variety of symptoms. We recommend people who are experiencing any of these symptoms schedule an appointment with one of our Indianapolis fertility doctors.
- Irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Challenges becoming pregnant, as polyps can interfere with embryo implantation
People have a greater risk of developing polyps if they are obese, have high blood pressure or have taken tamoxifen for breast cancer.
Diagnosing endometrial polyps often begins with a transvaginal ultrasound. This fertility evaluation allows the fertility specialist to make a preliminary assessment of the uterine growths and determine if the patient requires a hysterosalpingogram (HSG).
A HSG is a nonsurgical test involving the fertility specialist injecting a special dye, which is detectable by X-ray, into the patient’s uterus. The specialist uses X-ray images to track the progress of the dye, allowing them to assess the shape and structure of the uterus, the openness of the fallopian tubes and if there are any polyps or other uterine abnormalities.
Treatment for endometrial polyps can help make parenthood possible
If one of our Indianapolis fertility doctors determines a patient’s endometrial polyps are likely the cause of their infertility, they may suggest a hysteroscopy to remove the growths.
A hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure consisting of an anesthesiologist sedating the patient. Next, the doctor passes a thin, lighted telescope through the patient’s vagina and cervix into the uterus. The doctor then injects gas or fluid to expand the uterus for improved visibility.
The doctor locates the uterine polyps using images from the telescope and removes the growths with specialized instruments.
The patient can return home soon after this simple procedure. Following the hysteroscopy, most patients only experience minimal vaginal bleeding and mild cramping.
Hysteroscopy is typically an effective way to help patients move past the fertility challenge of polyps so that they can build a family. Contact us to learn more about our fertility services.
