What causes a thin endometrium?
Aug 21, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, thin endometrium may be caused by factors such as hormonal decline due to aging, excessive dieting leading to nutritional deficiency, intrauterine adhesion, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometritis, and other related conditions. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation, identify the underlying cause, and undergo symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Additionally, maintaining a positive mindset and avoiding excessive anxiety are advised in daily life.
Generally, thin endometrium may be caused by factors such as hormonal decline due to aging, excessive dieting leading to nutritional deficiencies, intrauterine adhesions, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometritis, and other conditions. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment under a physician's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Hormonal decline due to aging: With increasing age, ovarian function gradually declines and estrogen secretion decreases, leading to insufficient proliferation of the endometrium and subsequent thinning. This is commonly seen in women over 40 years old. It is recommended to consume more phytoestrogen-rich foods such as soy products and flaxseeds, and maintain a regular sleep schedule avoiding late nights.
2. Excessive dieting and nutritional deficiency: Long-term restrictive dieting leading to insufficient intake of proteins, vitamins, and other nutrients can impair endometrial cell proliferation, resulting in a thinner endometrium and reduced menstrual flow. Dieting should be stopped immediately, and a balanced diet should be resumed, including lean meats, eggs, and fresh fruits and vegetables to ensure adequate daily nutrition.
3. Intrauterine adhesions: Injury to the basal layer of the endometrium during uterine cavity surgery can lead to intrauterine adhesions, reducing the surface area and thickness of the endometrium. This is often accompanied by amenorrhea or very light menstrual flow. Treatment involves hysteroscopic adhesion lysis performed by a physician to separate the adhesions. Postoperative management typically includes medications such as estradiol valerate tablets, progesterone capsules, and aspirin enteric-coated tablets as directed by the physician to promote endometrial repair and prevent re-adhesion.
4. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Endocrine disorders lead to elevated androgen levels and abnormal ovulation, with insufficient estrogen stimulation of the endometrium, resulting in endometrial thinning. Symptoms may include hirsutism and infrequent menstruation. Patients should follow medical advice to use hormonal-regulating medications such as ethinylestradiol/cyproterone acetate tablets, drospirenone/ethinylestradiol tablets, or spironolactone tablets to improve hormonal balance and ovulation.
5. Endometritis: Infection of the endometrium by pathogens such as bacteria causes inflammation that damages the endometrial tissue, leading to thinning of the endometrium, often accompanied by lower abdominal pain and abnormal vaginal discharge. Patients should follow medical instructions to take antibiotics such as cefixime dispersible tablets, levofloxacin hydrochloride capsules, or metronidazole tablets for anti-infective treatment.
In daily life, maintaining a positive mindset and avoiding excessive anxiety are important. Menstrual hygiene should be observed, and unclean sexual practices should be avoided. A balanced diet, regular作息, and minimizing uterine cavity surgeries can help improve endometrial health and support reproductive well-being.
