Endometrial hyperplasia is when the lining of the uterus (endometrium) becomes too thick, usually because of irregular periods. If the lining isn’t shed regularly, it can cause unusual bleeding and, over time, increase the risk of endometrial cancer.
Some factors increase the risk of developing this condition:
Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or obesity can lead to higher levels of estrogen without enough progesterone to balance it.
Irregular periods are cycles that:
If periods are irregular or infrequent, the uterine lining doesn’t shed as it should, allowing it to grow thicker over time.
Sometimes, conditions like high prolactin (a hormone linked to milk production) or issues with the thyroid gland can mimic the symptoms of endometrial hyperplasia.
You can screen for these hormonal and thyroid imbalances through Taylor'sin-depth reproductive health screening.
Having close family members with endometrial cancer or hyperplasia increases your risk.
Women in their 40s and 50s are at greater risk, especially during the years leading up to menopause, when hormone levels naturally fluctuate.
Women using estrogen-only hormone therapy (for menopause symptoms) without progesterone are at higher risk, as this can overstimulate the uterine lining.
Endometrial hyperplasia doesn’t always cause noticeable symptoms, but certain changes in your periods or bleeding patterns could be warning signs.
Cycles shorter than 24 days, longer than 35 days, or that vary significantly can signal hormonal imbalances affecting the uterine lining.
Heavy bleeding, also called menorrhagia, includes:
Unexpected bleeding between periods should be investigated, especially if it happens frequently.
If your doctor suspects endometrial hyperplasia, they may recommend tests to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions:
Treatment depends on the severity of the hyperplasia and whether abnormal or pre-cancerous cells are found.
Progesterone can balance estrogen levels and reduce the thickness of the uterine lining. This can be delivered as:
If the hyperplasia is advanced or there are concerns about cancer, surgery might be recommended. This could involve:
Left untreated, endometrial hyperplasia can lead to more serious conditions like endometrial cancer. Early intervention can restore hormonal balance, regulate cycles, and protect reproductive health.
You should see a doctor if you experience any of the following:
Even if the symptoms seem mild, it’s better to get them checked early to rule out more serious conditions and start appropriate treatment.
Endometrial hyperplasia is manageable with early diagnosis and treatment. Pay attention to your body’s signals, and don’t ignore irregular bleeding, unusual discharge, or period changes. If you have concerns, don't wait to visit a women's health clinic or gynaecologist to stay on top of your health.
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