Endometrial Hyperplasia – What It Is and How to Treat It

Ever wonder why some women get heavy or irregular periods? One common reason is endometrial hyperplasia, a condition where the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) gets too thick. It’s not cancer, but it can raise the risk, so catching it early matters.

Most people don’t notice anything until they experience a change in bleeding. That could be a period that lasts longer than usual, heavier flow, or spotting between cycles. If you see these signs, especially after menopause, it’s worth getting checked.

Why the Uterine Lining Grows Too Thick

The endometrium responds to hormones, mainly estrogen and progesterone. When estrogen keeps pushing the lining to grow but progesterone isn’t there enough to balance it, the tissue can overgrow. This hormonal imbalance often shows up in women who have:

• Obesity – extra fat makes more estrogen.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) – irregular cycles mean less progesterone.
• Unopposed estrogen therapy – some birth control pills or hormone replacements give estrogen without the progesterone partner.
• Diabetes or insulin resistance – these can tweak hormone levels too.

Age plays a role, too. Women approaching menopause have fluctuating hormone levels, which can tip the balance. And while it’s rarer, some cancers start as hyperplasia, which is why doctors keep an eye on it.

Treatment Paths and Lifestyle Tips

Doctors start with a pelvic exam and an ultrasound to see how thick the lining looks. If they suspect something more serious, they’ll do a biopsy – a tiny tissue sample that tells whether cells are normal or if there are precancerous changes.

Treatment depends on what the biopsy shows and whether you still want to have children. Common options include:

• Progestin therapy – a pill, IUD, or injection that adds progesterone to slow down growth.
• Weight loss – shedding a few pounds can drop estrogen levels and ease the problem.
• Managing PCOS – medicines like metformin help balance hormones.
• Surgery – in severe or persistent cases, a hysterectomy removes the uterus entirely.

While you’re on treatment, keep an eye on bleeding patterns. If periods get lighter or stop, that’s often a good sign. But if you notice new pain, spotting, or a sudden change, call your doctor right away.

Simple lifestyle moves can also help keep the lining in check. Aim for a balanced diet rich in fiber, cut back on sugary drinks, and fit in regular exercise. Even a short walk each day can improve insulin sensitivity, which in turn helps hormone balance.

Bottom line: endometrial hyperplasia is a warning flag, not a death sentence. Spotting changes early, getting a quick diagnosis, and following a treatment plan can lower the chance of it turning into cancer. If you notice anything odd with your cycle, don’t wait – talk to a healthcare professional and get the peace of mind you deserve.