Customer question:
What causes the thickened lining of the uterus? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
The thickened lining of the uterus, also called endometrial hyperplasia, is often the result of abnormal growth of endometrial cells. Several factors can contribute to the development of this condition:
- Hormonal Imbalance: One of the main factors that can cause endometrial hyperplasia is hormonal imbalance, exceptionally high levels of estrogen compared to progesterone. This imbalance can occur for various reasons, such as irregularities in the menstrual cycle, ovarian dysfunction, excess body weight, diabetes, or polycystic ovary syndrome.
- Use of hormonal drugs: long-term use of estrogen without the use of progesterone (as with some forms of hormone replacement therapy) may increase the risk of developing endometrial hyperplasia.
- Overweight: Being overweight or obese can cause increased production of estrogen in fat cells, which can lead to thickening of the endometrium.
- Menopause: in menopause, the lining of the uterus may also thicken due to the natural decrease in the amount of secreted progesterone and the hormonal changes that occur during this period.
- Genetic predisposition: some individuals are genetically more prone to developing endometrial hyperplasia.
- Other factors: Other factors such as irregularities in the menstrual cycle, excessive bleeding from the uterus, infertility, or taking certain medications can also contribute to the thickening of the lining of the uterus.
Although endometrial hyperplasia is often not cancerous, in some cases, it can lead to the development of uterine cancer. Therefore, it is essential that any thickening of the uterine lining, especially in postmenopausal women, is appropriately examined and, if necessary, treated. Your doctor may recommend further tests, such as a biopsy, to rule out cancerous growths. Treatment of endometrial hyperplasia may include medication or surgery, depending on the severity of the condition and the individual's wishes regarding pregnancy.
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