Many women may feel alarmed when they discover thickening of the endometrium during an examination, worrying that it might indicate cancer. However, endometrial thickening does not automatically mean cancer.

Let’s first discuss endometrial cancer, which typically presents as a noticeably thickened endometrium on ultrasound, often appearing heterogeneous with abundant blood flow.

There are also several other reasons for endometrial thickening, such as endometrial hyperplasia, polyps, fibroids, or even normal physiological variations.

In the case of endometrial hyperplasia, if it is simple or complex hyperplasia without atypical cells, it can usually be treated effectively with medication. However, if atypical hyperplasia is present, this condition warrants attention as it is considered a precancerous lesion that could potentially progress to cancer.

Sometimes, small endometrial polyps or submucosal fibroids may appear as thickened endometrium on ultrasound due to their small size, and they can cause irregular bleeding, making it difficult to diagnose accurately.

It’s also important to note that the thickness of the endometrium naturally varies throughout the menstrual cycle. This cyclical thickening is a normal physiological process and requires no treatment.

In summary, if you find out that you have endometrial thickening, don’t panic! Consult with your doctor to understand the specific situation and determine the appropriate course of action.