Impact of Birth Control Pills on Endometrial Polyps and Fibroadenomas

Issues with contraceptive pills and endometrial polyps?

Hello, doctor.
I discovered that I had polyps before the Lunar New Year.
Initially, I was taking self-paid estrogen and Diane-35, but due to persistent bleeding, I underwent a cold knife excision of the endometrial polyps in April.
My menstrual flow was light in May, normal in June and July, but irregular in August and September, fluctuating between light and heavy.
The light flow was similar to the end of a menstrual period and lasted about 4 to 5 days.
The gynecologist mentioned that it was hormone-related and prescribed Yaz birth control pills for me.
However, I would like to ask if the multiple lymph nodes I had removed from my left axilla in May, which were diagnosed as necrotizing lymphadenitis, and the discovery of a 0.58 cm fibroadenoma in my right breast in August, could have any impact on the fibroadenoma in my breast? Thank you.

wen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/09/15

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, it generally does not have an impact.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/09/15

More Info

The impact of birth control pills on endometrial polyps and fibroadenomas is a topic of considerable interest, especially for women experiencing irregular menstrual cycles or those with existing conditions like polyps or fibroadenomas.
Endometrial polyps are growths on the inner lining of the uterus, and they can be influenced by hormonal changes in the body. Birth control pills, which contain synthetic hormones, are often prescribed to help regulate menstrual cycles and can potentially affect the growth of these polyps. In some cases, hormonal contraceptives may help reduce the size of polyps or prevent new ones from forming by stabilizing the hormonal fluctuations that can lead to their development. However, it is essential to note that while birth control pills can help manage symptoms and regulate menstrual cycles, they do not guarantee the elimination of existing polyps.

On the other hand, fibroadenomas are benign tumors of the breast that are also influenced by hormonal changes. The relationship between birth control pills and fibroadenomas is less clear. Some studies suggest that hormonal contraceptives may not significantly affect the size or growth of fibroadenomas, while others indicate that they could potentially cause changes in breast tissue that might influence the behavior of these tumors. Generally, fibroadenomas are monitored rather than treated unless they cause discomfort or other issues.

In your case, you mentioned experiencing irregular menstrual cycles and having undergone procedures for endometrial polyps and lymphadenitis. The introduction of birth control pills, such as the one prescribed to you, is a common approach to help regulate your menstrual cycle and manage any hormonal imbalances. However, it is crucial to monitor any changes in your body, especially concerning the fibroadenoma you discovered in your breast.

If you have concerns about how birth control pills might affect your fibroadenoma or if you notice any changes in your breast tissue, it is essential to discuss these with your healthcare provider. They may recommend regular breast examinations or imaging studies to monitor the fibroadenoma's status, especially if you have a history of lymphadenitis and other hormonal treatments.

In summary, while birth control pills can help manage the symptoms associated with endometrial polyps and may stabilize hormonal fluctuations, their direct impact on fibroadenomas is less definitive. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are crucial to ensure that both your menstrual health and breast health are adequately monitored. If you experience any new symptoms or changes, do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor for further evaluation and guidance.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Fibroadenomas: Can Birth Control Pills Affect Them?

Hello doctor, I recently had an ultrasound examination that revealed a fibroadenoma. I read online that "estrogen may cause the adenoma to grow." Can I still take the oral contraceptive pill "Yaz"? Will it affect the adenoma?

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, generally taking contraceptive pills does not have an impact. Wishing you good health.

Impact of Birth Control Pills on Breast Fibroids: Myths and Facts

1. If a breast fibroadenoma has been removed, will taking oral contraceptives affect the likelihood of it recurring? 2. There are online articles stating that oral contraceptives can improve fibroadenomas; is this correct?

Dr. Yuan Tianmin reply Breast and Thyroid
The exact causes of fibrocystic adenomas are still not very clear; generally, they are related to individual constitution. Therefore, the relationship between oral contraceptives and fibrocystic adenomas is not well-defined. It is unlikely that there are cases where the use of or...

Can Birth Control Pills Reduce Ovarian and Endometrial Cancer Risk?

Hello, doctor. I've heard that taking contraceptive pills can reduce the risk of endometrial cancer and ovarian cancer. After undergoing surgery for adenomyosis and ovarian cysts, could you prescribe contraceptive pills for long-term use to lower my cancer risk?

Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
There are many options for medication, not limited to just contraceptives. Please visit the outpatient clinic for an examination and prescription.

Do Birth Control Pills Cause Fibroadenoma Growth in Breasts?

Hello, Director Huang. I started taking birth control pills on April 12, but about a week later, I noticed what seemed to be a tumor in my breast, which was painful when pressed. I became scared and stopped taking the pills. I would like to ask if birth control pills can cause th...

Dr. Huang Yuande reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. Theoretically, it should not increase the probability. 2. The menstrual cycle can indeed be affected by the use of contraceptive pills, usually occurring in the first month; further observation is recommended.