What is the normal thickness of the endometrium?
Under normal circumstances, the thickness of the endometrium varies at different stages of the menstrual cycle, primarily influenced by female hormone levels, and typically ranges between 2-15 mm. A detailed analysis is as follows:
During menstruation, the endometrium sheds and is expelled from the body, with a typical thickness of 2-4 mm. During the secretory phase, corresponding to the luteal phase, the endometrium continues to thicken due to the secretion of progesterone and estrogen by the corpus luteum, potentially reaching 10 mm or more, usually ranging from 10-15 mm. Just before menstruation begins, the endometrial thickness is generally 8-10 mm. Subsequently, during menstruation, a sharp decline in estrogen and progesterone levels leads to shedding of the endometrium, significantly reducing its thickness.
Abnormally thick or thin endometrium may be associated with certain diseases, such as endometrial polyps, endometrial hyperplasia, endometrial cancer, and polycystic ovary syndrome. When evaluating whether endometrial thickness is normal, a comprehensive consideration should be given to a woman's specific physiological cycle and accompanying symptoms.