Endometrial Polyp Removal: What to Expect

• You may be asked to stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), Clopidogrel (Plavix), warfarin (Coumadin), and other blood thinners.
• You will be scheduled to undergo the procedure after menstrual bleeding has ended and before ovulation (if you are still ovulating).
• Ask your doctor which drugs you should still take on the day of the surgery.
• Discuss any possible bleeding disorders or other medical conditions that you may have.
• You will have blood samples taken in case you need a blood transfusion.
• Do not smoke. This will help you to recover quicker.

On the Day of the Surgery

• If you are to have general anesthesia, you will usually be asked not to drink or eat anything after midnight the night before the surgery.
• Take the drugs your doctor told you to take with a small sip of water.
• Your doctor or nurse will tell you when to arrive at the hospital.

After Surgery

• Most patients can go home the same day.
• You may have increased cramping and vaginal bleeding for a day or two after the procedure.
• You may experience gas pains for about a day or so due to gas administered during the procedure. This may extend into your upper abdomen and shoulder. Walking will help relieve this pressure.
• This surgery has a quick recovery with most patients feeling much better within the first few days.

Recovery: what to expect in the next few weeks

• Some women have some water discharge with some blood for a few weeks expect the flow to be heavy at first and then diminishing over time.
• Most women feel better within the first week following surgery; however, do not lift, push or pull any heavy objects for a couple of weeks.
• Do not resume sexual intercourse or douche until your doctor says it is OK.
• Full recovery takes about two weeks to allow for internal healing.

Endometrial Polyp Removal Q&A

What does endometrial polyp removal involve?

A patient is either lightly or fully sedated. The gynecologist guides the hysteroscope into your vagina, through the cervix, and into the uterus. Gas or saline is released through the scope to inflate your uterus, allowing for better visualization. The physician will remove any polyps with special scissors, a laser, or another device that uses electricity.

How many incisions are made?

No incisions are made on the outside since the procedure is done via the vagina.

How long do I stay in the hospital?

Patients will normally be able to go home the same day, but in some cases, there may be an overnight stay.

What is the recovery time?

Most patients are fully recovered in two weeks. If you have a physically demanding job that requires lifting or pushing heavy objects, check with the doctor before returning to work.