Uterine wall thickening (endometrial hyperplasia) is when the endometrium lining the uterus becomes thicker than normal. This is often caused by a hormone imbalance, especially when estrogen is not balanced by progesterone. Treatment of uterine wall thickening depends on the type of hyperplasia, whether the cells have atypia (abnormal cells), the age of the patient and her pregnancy plans. Before starting treatment, a biopsy of the uterus is usually needed for a correct diagnosis. In mild and atypia-free cases, medical treatment is often sufficient.
Non-surgical treatment of uterine wall thickening options are used as first-line treatment, especially for hyperplasia without atypia. The main aim of this treatment is to normalize the thickened uterine wall by administering the hormone progesterone. Progesterone therapy can be administered as a pill, injection or intrauterine device (RIA). This treatment method can give successful results without the need for surgery and allows the patient to maintain her fertility. However, regular check-ups and follow-up biopsies are essential to assess the effectiveness of the treatment.
What is Uterine Wall Thickening?
Uterine wall thickening is an abnormal growth and thickening of the endometrium, the inner layer of the uterus. This is usually caused by an overproduction of the hormone estrogen or an underproduction of the hormone progesterone.
What Causes Thickening of the Uterine Wall?
The most common cause of uterine wall thickening is hormonal imbalances in the body. But the main causes are as follows:
1. Excessive Estrogen Production
2. Insufficient Progesterone Production
3. Menstrual Irregularities and Lack of Ovulation
4. Menopause
5. Obesity
6. Taking Estrogen Supplements
7. Tamoxifen use
Is Thickening of the Uterine Wall Dangerous?
Thickening of the uterine wall can be potentially dangerous because some types are at risk of developing into uterine cancer if left untreated. However, not all thickening is at the same level of risk.
Is Thickening of the Uterine Wall Cancer?
Thickening of the uterine wall is not directly cancerous, but some types have the potential to develop into uterine cancer if left untreated.
What happens if uterine wall thickening cannot be treated?
If thickening of the uterine wall (endometrial hyperplasia) is left untreated, certain risks can arise that can make the condition more serious. The course of the condition depends on the type of thickening.
How to Treat Thickening of the Uterine Wall?
The treatment of this disease varies from woman to woman according to their condition. But the treatment methods are as follows:
1. Hormonal Treatment: This is the regular use of medication, usually for several months.
2. Surgical Treatment: There are two different surgical methods. The first is removal of the uterus (hysterectomy) and the second is endometrial ablation, that is, the destruction of the inner layer of the uterus by burning or freezing.
