What causes endometrial thickening?

Aug 18, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

Abnormal proliferation of endometrial glands and stroma leads to significant thickening of the endometrium, which may be accompanied by cellular atypia. It often presents with symptoms such as oligomenorrhea and heavy bleeding after amenorrhea, and some types carry a risk of malignancy. Doctors generally prescribe medications such as medroxyprogesterone acetate dispersible tablets, hydroxyprogesterone caproate injection, and compound medroxyprogesterone acetate tablets.

Endometrial thickening may be caused by the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle, early pregnancy, endocrine disorders, endometrial polyps, endometrial hyperplasia, endometrial cancer, etc. If abnormalities are present, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Secretory phase of the menstrual cycle: During the menstrual cycle, as estrogen and progesterone secreted by the ovaries increase, the endometrium gradually thickens under hormonal influence in preparation for embryo implantation. This is a normal physiological process. No special intervention is needed, and the endometrium will naturally shed and thin after menstruation begins.

2. Early pregnancy: After conception, embryonic trophoblast cells secrete human chorionic gonadotropin, which supports continued endometrial thickening to maintain the pregnancy and ensure embryonic development. This is a physiological change; regular prenatal checkups are sufficient, and no treatment specifically targeting endometrial thickening is required.

3. Endocrine disorders: Long-term excessive estrogen levels or insufficient progesterone can lead to continuous estrogenic stimulation of the endometrium, causing excessive proliferation, often accompanied by symptoms such as menstrual irregularities, prolonged menstruation, and heavy menstrual bleeding. Medications such as dydrogesterone tablets, medroxyprogesterone acetate tablets, or progesterone soft capsules may be used as directed by a physician.

4. Endometrial polyps: Localized endometrial tissue overgrows under estrogenic influence, forming polyps, which cause overall endometrial thickening and uneven morphology. Symptoms often include abnormal uterine bleeding and prolonged menstruation. Doctors may recommend hysteroscopic polypectomy.

5. Endometrial hyperplasia: Abnormal proliferation of endometrial glands and stroma causes significant endometrial thickening, sometimes accompanied by cellular atypia. Common manifestations include oligomenorrhea and heavy bleeding after amenorrhea. Some types carry a risk of malignancy. Physicians typically recommend medications such as megestrol acetate dispersible tablets, hydroxyprogesterone caproate injection, or combination megestrol acetate tablets.

In daily life, it is important to maintain regular作息 habits, avoid excessive weight gain, and reduce intake of exogenous hormones. Regular gynecological examinations are recommended, especially when abnormal bleeding occurs, and prompt medical consultation is necessary for accurate diagnosis and early intervention.

View All

What is the normal thickness of the endometrium during the ovulation period?

Under normal circumstances, an endometrial thickness of 8-12 mm during the ovulation period is considered normal. It is important to regularly monitor whether the menstrual cycle is regular. If abnormalities such as unusual menstrual flow or prolonged menstruation occur, timely medical evaluation is necessary. Maintain a regular sleep schedule and avoid staying up late, as this can affect hormone levels. Eat a balanced diet and reduce the intake of spicy and irritating foods to provide a healthy environment for the endometrium.

View Full Answer

Why is my menstrual period delayed by more than ten days if I'm not pregnant?

Under normal circumstances, a menstrual delay of ten days or so without pregnancy may be caused by factors such as chronic mental anxiety, excessive dieting for weight loss, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hyperprolactinemia, thin endometrium, and others. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Additionally, maintaining regular作息 (作息 should be translated as "daily routines") and avoiding excessive fatigue are advised in daily life.

View Full Answer

How long does it take for a fertilized egg to implant?

Under normal circumstances, it usually takes 6-8 days for the fertilized egg to complete implantation after its formation. The exact timing can be influenced by factors such as the development speed of the fertilized egg, fallopian tube function, and the condition of the endometrium. There may be slight individual variations, but most fall within this time range. In daily life, individuals preparing for pregnancy do not need to deliberately monitor the implantation timing, as excessive focus on it may instead increase psychological stress.

View Full Answer

What does it mean when a fertilized egg implants?

Under normal circumstances, embryo implantation refers to the process after fertilization, where the fertilized egg undergoes a certain period of cell division and development in the fallopian tube, subsequently entering the uterine cavity and finding a suitable location on the endometrium through a series of complex physiological processes. Additionally, it is important to maintain a positive mindset and avoid excessive anxiety during the implantation period; consumption of spicy and irritating foods should also be reduced.