Who Is at Risk?
Endometrial hyperplasia is more likely to occur in certain women. Those most at risk are women who:

• Are in the years around menopause
• Skip menstrual periods or have no periods at all
• Are overweight
• Have diabetes
• Have polycystic ovary syndrome
• Take estrogen without progesterone to replace the estrogen their body is no longer making and to relieve symptoms of menopause

The most common symptom of hyperplasia is abnormal vaginal bleeding.

Tests
If you have abnormal bleeding along with any of the other risk factors, you may need to be tested for endometrial hyperplasia.

Ultrasound
Your doctor may suggest you have a vaginal ultrasound exam.

Biopsy
Endometrial hyperplasia also may be found with a biopsy of the endometrium.

Dilation and Curettage
For dilation and curettage (D&C), the opening of the uterus is stretched (dilated). A special device called a curette is used to gently loosen and remove a sample of the uterine lining. This tissue then is studied in the lab to check for cancer.

Hysteroscopy
For hysteroscopy, your doctor inserts a slender, telescope-like device into the uterus to look for areas in the lining that may be abnormal.

Treatment
In most cases, endometrial hyperplasia can be treated with medication that is a form of the hormone progesterone.

You and your doctor will find a form of progesterone and a dose that is right for you.

If the problem persists, more treatment (such as other medication or surgery) may be used.

Protecting Against Endometrial Hyperplasia
Women can take steps to reduce the risk of endometrial hyperplasia.

• If you take estrogen after menopause, you need to take a form of progesterone to reduce the risk of endometrial hyperplasia and cancer of the uterus.

   

• If you don't have monthly periods, you may need to take a form of progesterone to help prevent the lining of the uterus from growing too much.

   

• If you are overweight, losing weight may help.

Finally …
In most cases, endometrial hyperplasia can be treated. Work with your doctor during treatment to prevent further problems. Women at risk can take steps to protect against endometrial hyperplasia.

This excerpt from ACOG's Patient Education Pamphlet is provided for your information. It is not medical advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for visiting your doctor. If you need medical care, have any questions, or wish to receive the full text of this Patient Education Pamphlet, please contact your obstetrician-gynecologist.