Uterine Growths (cont.)
How is adenomyosis treated?
Pain medications are used to relieve the cramping pain of adenomyosis.
Currently, the only effective treatment for adenomyosis is a hysterectomy,
meaning removal of the uterus. This requires a recovery period and carries the
risk of surgery and anesthesia, as described above (see complications of an
operation for fibroids). The decision as to whether or not to have a
hysterectomy depends on the severity of the symptoms and the overall health of
the patient. Controlling the menstrual cycle through hormonal contraception (the
pill) or use of other hormones may provide some symptom relief.
Uterine Polyps
What are uterine polyps?
Polyps of the uterus are benign overgrowths, or bulges, of the normal tissue
lining the uterus into the uterine cavity. Polyps may also be found in the
uterine cervix. Polyps are usually attached to the underlying uterus by a base
or stalk, and they vary in size. Polyps only rarely contain cancerous cells.
They are most common in women in their 40's.
What are the symptoms of uterine polyps?
Uterine polyps may not produce any symptoms. However, some women may
experience:
- bleeding after intercourse, or
- heavy menstrual bleeding.
How are uterine polyps diagnosed and treated?
Sometimes, the polyps stick out through the opening of the cervix so that
they are visible during a speculum exam, such as during a pap smear. Diagnosis
is by ultrasound or examination under a microscope of the tissue removed during
uterine sampling. A diagnosis can also be made by
hysteroscopy, the insertion of
a scope that allows visualization of the uterine cavity from the inside. It is
often possible to remove polyps during this procedure.
Curettage, a procedure in
which the lining of the uterus is removed, can be used to cure endometrial
polyps in most cases.
Last Editorial Review: 4/16/2007
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- Dilation and Curettage (D&C) - Read about dilation and Curettage (D&C), a procedure performed for a variety of reasons including determining the cause of abnormal uterine (vaginal) bleeding, tissue removal after miscarriage, or abortion.
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