Endometrial Hyperplasia

Learn more about endometrial hyperplasia and how it’s treated.

Overview

Endometrial hyperplasia is a condition that involves the thickening of the uterine lining (endometrium).

Some types of endometrial hyperplasia can develop into endometrial cancer if left untreated. Treatment helps prevent endometrial hyperplasia from becoming cancerous.

Symptoms of endometrial hyperplasia include abnormal vaginal bleeding and heavy periods.

Our care

Learn more about the specialized care provided at Mount Sinai Hospital for gynaecologic oncology.

This content is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used or relied upon for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. It does not replace the need for consultation with a health-care professional. Please speak with your health-care professional for questions about your health.

Types

Types of endometrial hyperplasia

Different types of endometrial hyperplasia can be grouped into the following two categories.

Endometrial hyperplasia without atypia

These types of endometrial hyperplasia are not likely to become cancer. They involve an overgrowth of normal endometrial cells that may go away with time or may be treated with hormones.

Atypical endometrial hyperplasia

Atypical endometrial hyperplasia has a higher chance of developing into cancer. It involves an overgrowth of abnormal cells that should be treated to prevent cancer.

Endometrial hyperplasia diagnosis

Symptoms of endometrial hyperplasia include any of the following:

Bleeding between periods
Heavy periods
Menstrual cycles shorter than 21 days
No period at all (before menopause)
Bleeding after menopause

Having these symptoms does not necessarily mean you have endometrial hyperplasia. Abnormal menstrual bleeding can by a symptom of many conditions.

If you have symptoms of endometrial hyperplasia, there are several tests used to make a diagnosis.

Ultrasound

A transvaginal ultrasound is often used to help diagnose endometrial hyperplasia. During the ultrasound, a probe is inserted into your vagina to examine your uterus and ovaries.

Endometrial biopsy

A physician may use a thin tube and a small brush to take a sample of your endometrium. This tissue sample will then be examined under a microscope in a laboratory to see if there are cancer cells present.

Hysteroscopy

Hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows a gynaecologist to examine the inside of the uterus in order to diagnose or treat a variety of conditions.

A thin tube called a hysteroscope is inserted through your vagina and into your uterus. A hysteroscope contains a small camera, a light and a surgical instrument. Images from the camera are shown on a screen so your gynaecologist can see inside your uterus.

Treatment

If you have been diagnosed with endometrial hyperplasia, your health-care team will discuss your options with you. We will help you weigh the benefits of each treatment option against the possible risks and side effects.

Endometrial hyperplasia is often caused by an imbalance of hormones. The most common treatment involves progestin therapy. This can take the form of a daily pill, IUD, injection or vaginal cream.

If there you are at a higher risk for developing cancer and do not respond to progestin therapy, your health-care provider might recommend a hysterectomy to remove your uterus.