Dr. Dan Gehlbach treats uterine polyps in our Kansas fertility center to improve fertility
As head of our Kansas fertility center, Dr. Dan Gehlbach identifies and treats common cause of infertility, including physical abnormalities such as uterine polyps. An estimated 25% of women develop these polyps, which form as overgrowths of tissue in the endometrium. Although women with uterine polyps can often be asymptomatic, these growths can create physical barriers to conception.
Our Kansas fertility center expert provides a detailed explanation about uterine polyps
Also referred to as endometrial polyps, uterine polyps are small or large masses of tissue attached to the uterus by a base or a stalk. Although the exact cause remains unknown, research indicates that polyps have a sensitivity to estrogen. In general, our Kansas fertility center expert finds that obese women, those with high blood pressure, women between the ages of 40 to 50, and individuals who have taken, or currently take, anti-estrogen drugs for cancer treatment may have an increased risk of uterine polyps.
Symptoms of uterine polyps include:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Spotting between periods
- Bleeding after intercourse
- Any spotting or bleeding after finishing menopause
- Infertility
Dr. Gehlbach explains the correlation between uterine polyps and infertility
Because these polyps grow inside the uterus, they can disrupt pregnancy development. When polyps are present, they can prevent a fertilized egg from successful implantation in the uterine wall. Additionally, uterine polyps can block the area where the fallopian tubes and uterus connect, as well as the entrance to the cervical canal, which could make conception difficult. In some cases, uterine polyps can contribute to pregnancy loss.
Diagnosing and treating polyps at our Kansas fertility center
If Dr. Gehlbach suspects uterine polyps, he will want to confirm the diagnosis via sonogram, with an endometrial biopsy of the tissue or through a hysterosalpingogram, a procedure that uses X-ray images to view the inside of the uterus and fallopian tubes. Depending on the size and location of the polyps, Dr. Gehlbach may suggest removing them using hysteroscopy. Usually, these polyps are benign, but because they can be malignant, Dr. Gehlbach recommends having them biopsied after removal.
Physical issues such as uterine polyps can prevent you from having the baby you desire. If you have symptoms that could indicate the presence of polyps, contact our office for an appointment with Dr. Gehlbach. Our Kansas fertility center expert diagnoses and treats infertility, including any difficulties created by uterine polyps.
