Womb lining
Thickening of the womb lining, sometimes with abnormal cells. Important to investigate, but usually treatable without surgery.
Understanding
Endometrial hyperplasia is a thickening of the lining of the womb. It is more common in women who are postmenopausal, who have irregular cycles, who carry excess weight, or who have polycystic ovary syndrome.
Hyperplasia is a spectrum. Most types respond very well to progestogen-based treatment, often delivered via the Mirena coil. Higher-risk types (those with atypical cells) are managed more actively to lower the small but real risk of progression.
Common symptoms
Heavy or irregular bleeding
Bleeding between periods
Bleeding after the menopause
Sometimes no symptoms at all; picked up incidentally on a scan
Diagnosis
Approach
A structured workup, often within one appointment, to identify the cause and shape a clear treatment plan.
Transvaginal pelvic ultrasound
Endometrial biopsy (often in clinic)
Hysteroscopy where needed for direct visualisation
Treatment
Treatment is built around your symptoms, preferences and any other conditions. Options often combine medication, hormonal treatments and where appropriate, surgery.
Hormonal treatment with progestogens for most types
Mirena (intrauterine system), often first-line
Hysterectomy in selected high-risk types or where medical treatment fails
Lifestyle support: weight management, blood-sugar control where relevant
Related procedures
Outpatient sample
A small sample of the womb lining, taken in clinic, to investigate heavy or abnormal bleeding. Quick to perform and usually well tolerated.
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Diagnostic & operative
A short procedure that lets us look directly inside the womb using a slim camera. No cuts are needed. Available in clinic under local anaesthetic, or at hospital under general anaesthetic for more involved cases.
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Contraception
Hormonal (Mirena, Kyleena, Jaydess) or copper coils fitted in clinic under local anaesthetic, with ultrasound guidance for accurate placement.
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Major keyhole surgery
Keyhole removal of the womb, cervix and (where indicated) the fallopian tubes and ovaries. Faster recovery and smaller scars than open hysterectomy.
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Your consultation
A first appointment is unhurried. We work through your history, your symptoms and your priorities, and where helpful arrange examination, imaging or further tests at the same visit. You leave with a clear plan and time to ask any question you bring.