# What is endometrial hyperplasia, and is it cancer? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/ma-dha-taeni-halat-tadakhum-bitanat-al-rahem-wa-hal-hiya-saratan Language: en Category: womens_health Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T17:52:53.760Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T17:52:53.760Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/ma-dha-taeni-halat-tadakhum-bitanat-al-rahem-wa-hal-hiya-saratan Endometrial hyperplasia is a condition characterized by the excessive growth of endometrial cells, leading to a thickening of the uterine lining. This condition itself is not cancer, but it may increase the risk of developing endometrial cancer, especially if it is accompanied by abnormal cellular changes known as "Endometrial Intraepithelial Neoplasia" (EIN) [\[2\]](). Endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia is considered a precancerous condition and requires careful monitoring and treatment to prevent it from progressing to cancer [\[2\]](). ## Causes of Endometrial Hyperplasia Endometrial hyperplasia is usually caused by a hormonal imbalance, where estrogen levels in the body are high without sufficient progesterone to balance them. Estrogen stimulates the growth of the endometrial lining, and if this growth is not regulated by progesterone, it can lead to hyperplasia [\[2\]](). Factors that increase the risk of this hormonal imbalance include: obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), early onset of menstruation or late menopause, and never having been pregnant. The use of estrogen-only hormone therapy after menopause also increases this risk [\[1\]](). ## Common Symptoms and When to See a Doctor Abnormal vaginal bleeding is the most common symptom of endometrial hyperplasia [\[1\]](). This bleeding may present as irregular menstrual cycles, heavy bleeding, or spotting between periods. For women after menopause, any vaginal bleeding or spotting is considered abnormal and warrants immediate medical consultation [\[2\]](). Less common symptoms may include pelvic pain or pressure, unusual vaginal discharge, or an enlarged uterus [\[1\]](). ## Diagnosis of Endometrial Hyperplasia There are no routine screening tests for endometrial hyperplasia in asymptomatic women. When symptoms appear, diagnosis usually begins with a review of medical history and a physical examination [\[1\]](). The doctor may order a transvaginal ultrasound to measure the thickness of the endometrial lining. If the lining is abnormally thick, the next step is often an endometrial biopsy. In this procedure, a small sample of tissue is removed for microscopic examination to determine the nature of the cells [\[2\]](). In some cases, a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure may be performed to obtain a sample of the endometrium for examination [\[1\]](). ## Treatment and Prevention Options Treatment for endometrial hyperplasia depends on the type of hyperplasia, the woman's age, and her desire for pregnancy. Treatment often involves the use of progestin, a synthetic form of progesterone, to help reduce the thickness of the lining and prevent the development of abnormal cells [\[2\]](). In some cases, especially if the condition is advanced or does not respond to hormonal treatment, the doctor may recommend a hysterectomy. To reduce the risk of developing endometrial hyperplasia and cancer, it is recommended to maintain a healthy weight and engage in regular physical activity [\[1\]](). You can learn more about [endometrial cancer (Arabic)]() and its associated risk factors. ## Medical references - [Uterine Cancer]() - [Endometrial Cancer]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/ma-dha-taeni-halat-tadakhum-bitanat-al-rahem-wa-hal-hiya-saratan#answer