The lining of uterus is called endometrium. In endometrial hyperplasia, the lining of uterus becomes abnormally thick. Every month the uterine lining gradually becomes thick, it is a normal physiological process. It occurs in anticipation of pregnancy. However, if the fertilized egg is not embedded in the uterus, this lining is shed. Shedding or detachment of the uterine lining, which takes place every month, is called menstruation or menstrual period.
The whole process is controlled by 2 hormones, called estrogen and progesterone. If there is an imbalance of these hormones, it may result in abnormal growth of the uterine lining which is called endometrial hyperplasia.
Causes Of Endometrial Hyperplasia
As mentioned earlier, every month it is a normal physiological process for the endometrium to become thick in anticipation of pregnancy. This thickening is due to an increase in the estrogen level. It helps to build up the cellular lining.
If progesterone hormone is not produced adequately or if there is complete lack of progesterone hormone, uninterrupted rise of estrogen will lead to abnormal overgrowth of lining of uterus which we refer to as uterine hyperplasia. Below are given risk factors responsible for it:
- Women over the age of 35 or 40 years.
- Women suffering from polycystic ovarian disorder.
- Women who has not conceived in her life.
- Taking only estrogen therapy without taking progesterone.
- Obese women suffering from diabetes.
- It is more prevalent in people of Caucasian race.
- Family history of uterine cancer.
- Cigarette smoking.
Endometrial Hyperplasia Symptoms
The most common symptom of uterine hyperplasia is an abnormal menstrual cycle. Other symptoms may not be related to reproductive system but they may be present with endometrial hyperplasia. Here are some of the common symptoms:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding and menstrual flow lasts more days than usual.
- The interval between two periods becomes short. It is less than 20 days.
- Abnormal and excessive growth of hair on body.
- Genital area becomes tender to touch.
- Bleeding after menopause
- Frequent changes in mood
- Fast pulse and heart rate
- Excessive sweating
- Hot flashes
- Fatigue
- Anemia
- Acne
Natural Ways To Treat Endometrial Hyperplasia
- The treatment of endometrial hyperplasia may depend on many factors. It may depend on the age of a woman, the severity of symptoms etc.
- Young women who are still menstruating may benefit by taking contraceptive pills. It helps to regulate the menstrual cycle. Birth control pills contain progesterone hormones.
- If the women is obese, she should reduce her weight, especially when she is suffering from polycystic ovarian disorder.
- Women who are smoking should stop it completely.
- In case of uterine hyperplasia after menopause, surgery may be recommended. It is called hysterectomy.
- Fish has abundant omega 3 fatty acids. It helps to increase the production of progesterone level and naturally counteract the estrogen production.
- For dryness, patient may use egg white instead of petroleum jelly.
- Licorice is also beneficial in relieving the symptoms of endometrial hyperplasia.