The ablation of a polyp from the uterine endometrium and its impact during an IVF

What is a polyp in the uterus?

A polyp in the uterus is a growth of endometrial tissue that appears as a rounded mass on a stalk. Depending on their structure and composition, polyps are divided into several types:

• Glandular - formed by glandular cells;
• Fibrous - composed of connective tissue;
• Glandular-fibrotic - mixed structure;
• Adenomatous - they have the highest risk of malignant degeneration.

Polyps can be single or multiple and occur in 25% of cases of endometrial hyperplasia. About 2 to 5% of these formations are likely to degenerate into malignant tumors, hence the need for timely removal to preserve reproductive health.

Causes and symptoms of polyps in the uterus

The proliferation of the endometrium can be caused by various factors, including

• hormonal disorders
• chronic infections
• traumatic lesions (e.g., after an abortion);
• birth trauma, especially in pre-menopausal women.

Polyps can be asymptomatic, but in 30 to 40% of women, they are accompanied by various clinical manifestations, more common in patients suffering from hormonal disorders, inflammatory diseases, or during the premenopausal period. In some cases, polyps cause

• menstrual disorders;
• acyclic vaginal bleeding;
• lower abdominal pain;
• discomfort or pain during intercourse;
• heavy liquid discharge;
• difficulties in conceiving a child.

Polyps can be detected using:

• transvaginal ultrasound;
• cytological and histological examination;
• hysteroscopy.

How is the removal of a polyp in the uterus performed?

The main treatment method for polyps is polypectomy, which is the surgical removal of the polyp from the endometrium of the uterus. In some cases, prior to the operation, medication is prescribed, especially in the presence of hormonal disorders. The medications used are

• progestins,
• combined oral contraceptives,
• gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists.

These medications help reduce the proliferation of the endometrium and decrease the risk of recurrence. If the polyps do not disappear, the patient is prescribed a minimally invasive procedure: hysteroscopy.

Indications for polyp removal

Hysteroscopy is performed in the following cases

• lack of effect from medical treatment
• medium to large-sized polyps;
• increased number or growth of polyps;
• suspicion of malignant degeneration;
• The patient is 40 years old or older.

Hysteroscopy: a method for polyp removal

Hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure performed under general anesthesia. It is characterized by high precision and minimal trauma. The doctor uses a hysteroscope - a device equipped with a camera and a light source, which transmits the image to a screen, allowing for a thorough evaluation of the state of the endometrium and targeted removal of formations. The removed tissue is sent for histological examination to determine its nature.

Potential risks and recovery

Although hysteroscopy is considered a safe procedure, it carries some risks, including

• temporary cramps and pain in the lower abdomen;
• slight bleeding for a few days;
• risk of infectious complications;
• In rare cases, damage to the endometrium or uterine walls.

Recovery and preparation for IVF

The removal of polyps is particularly important for women considering in vitro fertilization (IVF), as the condition of the endometrium directly affects the success of embryo implantation. Mild cramps and bloody discharge may occur for a few days after the procedure.

It is recommended

• to avoid physical exertion and sexual intercourse for 2 to 4 weeks;
• to follow a gentle diet;
• to consult a specialist doctor before starting preparation for IVF.

Returning to normal life is possible within a few days, but complete recovery of the endometrium takes about a month.

Polyp removal at the "NatuVitro" clinic

At the "NatuVitro" clinic, the procedure is performed by a physician with 20 years of experience in operative gynecology. A modern Olympus hysteroscope with 20x magnification and a diameter of only 5 mm is used, ensuring precision and safety of the procedure. Samples of removed tissue are sent for histological examination for further analysis.

Removing a polyp in the uterus at the NatuVitro clinic is a safe, precise, and effective procedure, performed painlessly and without complications. More information about the hysteroscopy procedure and its impact on IVF protocols is available on our website.