How Do Uterine Polyps Affect Female Fertility

At The Fertility Institute of New Orleans (FINO), you deserve answers that bring clarity and comfort—especially when trying to grow your family hasn’t been as straightforward as you’d hoped. If something feels off, uterine polyps could quietly be part of the story.

You may be wondering how uterine polyps could affect your fertility. These small tissue growths inside the uterus can sometimes make conception more difficult. The good news is that they can be identified and treated with precision and care, often restoring balance to your reproductive health.

Understanding Uterine Polyps and Fertility

When building your family hasn’t gone as planned, it’s natural to want to understand why. Uterine polyps are one of several factors that can play a role. These growths form along the inner lining of the uterus and are usually benign, but even small ones can interfere with conception.

Here’s how uterine polyps can sometimes affect fertility:

They can make it harder for sperm to reach an egg.
They may prevent an embryo from implanting properly.
They can alter the uterine environment in ways that impact early development.

According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), uterine abnormalities appear in about 16% of individuals undergoing fertility evaluation, and polyps make up roughly 13% of those findings.*

If polyps are part of what’s happening in your body, you’re not alone—and you’re in the right place to find answers, support, and a clear way forward.

Uterine Polyps: Signs to Look For

Some people with uterine polyps experience only light spotting, and others may not have symptoms at all. That’s why professional evaluation is so important. If you’ve noticed changes in your cycle or if you’ve been trying to conceive for 12 or more months, it may be time to connect with a fertility specialist who can help uncover what’s really going on.

Common symptoms may include:

Bleeding between menstrual cycles
Irregular or unpredictable periods
Heavy menstrual flow
Bleeding after menopause
Difficulty conceiving

While uterine polyps can develop at any age, they’re more common in people in their 40s and 50s. Recognizing potential signs can help you know when it’s time to reach out for evaluation.

Treatment for Uterine Polyps

When it comes to treating uterine polyps, the goal is to make the process gentle, precise, and minimally disruptive to your life. The most common approach is hysteroscopic polyp removal, a simple office-based procedure that doesn’t require general anesthesia.

During the procedure, your reproductive specialist or reproductive endocrinologist (REI) will use a slender scope inserted through the cervix to view the uterine cavity and remove the polyp. Many people are surprised by how quick the procedure is—and most return to normal activity the same or next day.

Every step is guided by experience, compassion, and attention to detail—so you can focus on healing and moving forward with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What tests help diagnose uterine polyps?

Diagnosis often includes imaging and diagnostic procedures such as ultrasound, saline infusion sonography, hysterosalpingogram, or endometrial biopsy. These tests help your fertility specialist clearly visualize the uterine lining and recommend next steps.

Can uterine polyps come back after removal?

It’s possible, though not common. Many people experience lasting results after treatment, and regular follow-ups help catch any recurrence early.

Are uterine polyps the same as fibroids?

No. Polyps form from the uterine lining (endometrium), while fibroids develop in the uterine muscle wall. Because the symptoms can overlap, expert evaluation helps ensure the right diagnosis and treatment plan.

Finding Clarity and Support

Fertility challenges can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to face them alone. At The Fertility Institute, we take time to listen, understand, and guide you through every step with expertise and empathy.

If uterine polyps are part of what’s affecting your fertility, there are effective ways to treat them and restore a healthy uterine environment for conception. You deserve care that supports your body, your goals, and your peace of mind.

Reach out to schedule a consultation and take your next step toward clarity, healing, and renewed hope.

*Source: ASRM