Hysteroscopic Uterine Polyp Removal

Hysteroscopic Uterine Polyp Removal in Turkey: The Incision-Free Cure

What is a uterine polyp? Learn about the symptoms like heavy bleeding and infertility. Discover incision-free hysteroscopic polyp removal in Istanbul with Dr. Cengiz Andan.

Clear Your Uterus of “Unwanted Guests” Without Surgery

In women’s health, unexplained infertility and irregular bleeding are frequently traced back to a common culprit: Uterine Polyps (Endometrial Polyps). These are overgrowths of the uterine lining that extend into the womb cavity. While mostly benign, they can severely impact a woman’s quality of life and ability to conceive.

In the past, polyps were often treated with “D&C” (Dilation and Curettage), a blind scraping method that risked missing the polyp’s root. Today, the Gold Standard is Hysteroscopic Polypectomy. This modern technique allows the surgeon to enter the uterus with a high-definition camera, see the polyp clearly, and remove it completely from its base.

At Dr. Cengiz Andan’s Clinic in Istanbul, we offer this as a painless, incision-free, day-case procedure, helping women restore their reproductive health quickly and safely.

1. What are Uterine Polyps and Why Do They Form?

Uterine polyps are soft, finger-like growths attached to the inner wall of the uterus. They can range in size from a grain of rice to a ping-pong ball. A woman might have a single polyp or multiple clusters. While the exact cause isn’t fully known, they are highly sensitive to hormones. Excess Estrogen is the primary driver, which is why they are most common in women of reproductive age or those taking hormone therapies.

2. What Signs is Your Body Giving You?

Some polyps are “silent” and only discovered during a routine ultrasound. However, most women experience specific warning signs:

• Irregular Bleeding: Periods that last longer than usual, are heavier, or spotting between periods.
• Post-Coital Bleeding: Spotting or bleeding after sexual intercourse.
• Infertility: Polyps take up space in the uterus, acting like a natural contraceptive coil (IUD) and preventing the embryo from implanting.
• Miscarriage: Even if pregnancy occurs, the polyp creates an unstable environment, increasing the risk of early pregnancy loss.

3. How is Hysteroscopic Polyp Removal Performed?

Although technically a “surgery,” this procedure involves no cuts on your body. It is performed entirely through natural pathways (the vagina and cervix).

The Step-by-Step Process in Turkey:

1. Preparation: The patient receives light sedation or anesthesia for total comfort.
2. Access: A hysteroscope (a slender telescope with a light and camera) is gently inserted through the cervix.
3. Visualization: The uterus is expanded with a saline solution to separate the walls, providing a crystal-clear view of the polyps on a monitor.

1. Removal (Polypectomy): Using micro-scissors or an electrical loop passed through the hysteroscope, the polyp is cut precisely at its root and removed.
2. Duration: The entire procedure typically takes just 15 to 20 minutes.

4. Polyps and Infertility: Will Surgery Help Me Conceive?

Yes, absolutely. Especially for patients undergoing IVF or those with unexplained infertility, even a small (1 cm) polyp can drastically reduce success rates. Removing the polyp eliminates inflammation and clears the “landing zone” for the baby.

• Scientific Evidence (AAGL): Studies show that spontaneous pregnancy rates increase by 25% to 40% following the removal of uterine polyps in infertile women.

5. When is Removal Mandatory?

Not every tiny polyp needs immediate surgery; some may resolve on their own. However, Dr. Andan recommends removal if:

• The polyp is larger than 1.5 cm.
• You are experiencing bleeding symptoms.
• You are struggling with infertility.
• You are post-menopausal (increased cancer risk).
• You are planning IVF treatment.

Cancer Risk: 99% of polyps are benign. However, there is a small risk (1-5%) of precancerous changes or malignancy, especially in post-menopausal women or rapidly growing polyps. Therefore, every removed tissue is sent for pathology analysis.

6. Advantages and Recovery

Hysteroscopic surgery offers excellent patient comfort and convenience.

• No Scars: No abdominal incisions means a perfect cosmetic result.
• Uterus Preservation: Only the polyp is removed; the healthy uterine tissue is left untouched.
• Fast Discharge: Patients leave the clinic 2-3 hours after the procedure.
• Minimal Pain: Post-op sensation is similar to mild menstrual cramps, manageable with simple painkillers.

Recovery: Most women return to work the next day. Mild spotting for 1-2 days is normal. We recommend avoiding intercourse, tampons, and swimming for one week to prevent infection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can polyps grow back after removal?Since polyps are driven by hormones and genetics, there is a 10-15% chance of recurrence over time, even after complete removal. However, this does not mean the surgery failed; it is simply the nature of the condition.
2. Can this be done for virgins?Standard hysteroscopy uses vaginal access which can affect the hymen. However, in urgent cases with life-threatening bleeding, ultra-thin “office” hysteroscopes and specialized “hymen-sparing” techniques can be discussed, though this requires a careful consultation.
3. Can D&C (scraping) remove polyps?D&C is an outdated, “blind” method. Because polyps are often mobile and soft, they can easily dodge the scraping tool and remain inside. Hysteroscopy allows the doctor to seeand remove the polyp precisely, making it the only recommended method.
4. How soon can I get pregnant after surgery?The lining of the uterus heals very quickly. Generally, the uterus is fully recovered after your next menstrual cycle, and you can start trying to conceive immediately.
5. What happens if the pathology report is bad?In very rare cases, a polyp may contain cancerous or precancerous cells (hyperplasia). If this happens, the treatment plan changes, and further steps such as medication or, in severe cases, hysterectomy may be required.

Dr. Cengiz Andan utilizes state-of-the-art hysteroscopic technology to clear your uterus safely, removing the barriers to your reproductive health and comfort.