The term "endometrial polyp" refers to a growth or small protrusion in the lining of the uterus. The word is pronounced /ɛndoʊˈmitriəl ˈpɑləp/, with the emphasis on the second syllable of "endometrial" and the first syllable of "polyp". The "e" in "endometrial" is pronounced as in "bed", while the "o" in "polyp" is pronounced as in "pot". This spelling of the word is derived from Greek with "endo" meaning "within", "metr" meaning "womb", and "polyp" meaning "many feet".
An endometrial polyp is a benign growth or tumor that forms within the lining of the uterus, known as the endometrium. It is characterized by the overgrowth of endometrial tissue, resulting in the formation of a raised, abnormal lesion. Generally, endometrial polyps are noncancerous and are commonly found in women of reproductive age, particularly those in their 40s and 50s.
These polyps can vary in size, ranging from just a few millimeters to several centimeters. They may occur as a single entity or in clusters, and their appearance can be described as either sessile, being flat or broad-based, or pedunculated, hanging by a stalk. Endometrial polyps can develop due to hormonal imbalances, specifically excessive estrogen levels, which stimulate the growth of endometrial tissue.
Symptoms associated with endometrial polyps may include irregular menstrual bleeding, particularly heavy or prolonged periods, spotting between periods, and postmenopausal bleeding. In some cases, women may also experience pelvic pain or have difficulty conceiving. While these polyps are typically harmless, they can sometimes interfere with fertility and cause recurrent miscarriages.
Diagnosis of an endometrial polyp usually involves a pelvic examination, ultrasound imaging, or hysteroscopy, which involves inserting a thin tube equipped with a camera into the uterus for visualization. Treatment options typically include the removal of the polyps via hysteroscopy or, in some cases, a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure. Removing these growths is generally carried out to alleviate symptoms, address fertility issues, or exclude the possibility of malignancy.
The word "endometrial" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots: "endo", meaning "within" or "inside", and "metra", meaning "womb" or "uterus". Therefore, "endometrial" refers to something relating to the lining of the uterus.
The term "polyp" has its origin in Greek as well. It originates from the Greek word "polypous", meaning "foot with many branches". The reference to a foot is due to the stalk-like structure that some polyps have, which resembles a foot, while "many branches" refers to the multiple projections or growths on the polyp.
Therefore, "endometrial polyp" combines these two terms to describe a growth or projection within the lining of the uterus.