Endometrial hyperplasia

Endometrial hyperplasia is an excessive or abnormal thickening of the lining of the uterus. This lining, called the endometrium, thickens every month in preparation for pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occur, the lining is shed. This shedding process is called a menstrual period or menstruation. Most women have a normal menstrual period approximately every 28 days. This entire process is controlled by two hormones: estrogen and progesterone. If the hormones are out of balance or not available, then excessive growth of the cells lining the uterus may occur, which results in endometrial hyperplasia.Most cases of endometrial hyperplasia are benign, or noncancerous. Because of the associated hormonal changes, this condition is most common among women who are nearing menopause or have reached menopause. Endometrial hyperplasia may also occur because of chronic disorders, such as diabetes, obesity, or polycystic ovary syndrome. Symptoms of endometrial hyperplasia include abnormal vaginal bleeding, including bleeding or spotting between menstrual periods, dramatic changes in the duration of menstrual periods, postmenopausal bleeding, or heavier menstrual blood flow. In some instances, endometrial hyperplasia may precede cancer of the uterus. Menstruating women with endometrial hyperplasia also have a risk for developing anemia (low red blood cell count).