What happens if endometrial hyperplasia is not treated?

Endometrial hyperplasia means that the cells in the womb lining have increased, often in response to hormonal imbalance. Some forms have atypical cells, which need closer management because they can change into cancerous cells. Heavy periods or bleeding after menopause may occur, but symptoms alone cannot show which type is present. An endometrial biopsy examines a tissue sample and helps distinguish simple thickening from changes needing more active treatment.

Keep follow-up appointments even if bleeding settles. Your clinician may discuss progesterone treatment, including a hormonal coil, repeat sampling, or surgery. The choice depends on the cell pattern, symptoms, general health, and whether future pregnancy matters. If atypical changes are found, ask how quickly treatment should begin and whether a hysterectomy or another specialist option is appropriate.

Get urgent help if bleeding is soaking through protection repeatedly, you feel faint or short of breath, or you develop severe pelvic pain. Bleeding after menopause should be reported promptly, even when there is no pain.

Ask which type of hyperplasia you have, whether atypical cells are present, when repeat sampling is needed, how treatment affects fertility, and what amount of bleeding requires urgent care.