Cervical polyps

Overview

Cervical polyps are small, soft growths that form on the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. They are usually harmless and not cancerous.

Yes, cervical polyps are quite common, especially in women aged 40 to 60.

They affect women of reproductive age, particularly those who have given birth, and are more common after age 40.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Vaginal bleeding between periods
• Bleeding after sexual intercourse
• Heavier or irregular menstrual bleeding
• Bleeding after menopause
• Unusual vaginal discharge (yellow or white fluid)

Symptoms in children

• Cervical polyps are very rare in children. Any vaginal bleeding in a child should be checked by a doctor.

Symptoms in older adults

• Bleeding after menopause (any vaginal bleeding should be evaluated)
• No symptoms in many cases

Causes

Main causes

• The exact cause is unknown, but they may be linked to chronic inflammation, hormone changes (especially estrogen), or blocked blood vessels in the cervix.

Risk factors

• Being between 40 and 60 years old
• Having had children
• Having had multiple pregnancies
• History of cervical or vaginal infections
• Use of certain hormonal medications (like birth control pills)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Any new vaginal bleeding, especially after menopause
• Heavy bleeding or bleeding that lasts longer than a normal period

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have irregular bleeding and are due for a routine gynecological check
• If you notice any unusual discharge

Diagnosis

Cervical polyps are often discovered during a routine pelvic exam or Pap smear. Your doctor may also use a speculum to look at the cervix.

Tests that may be done

• Pelvic exam
• Colposcopy (a magnifying instrument to examine the cervix)
• Ultrasound (sometimes)
• Biopsy (removing a small piece of tissue for testing if the polyp looks abnormal)

What to expect at your appointment

The diagnosis is usually straightforward and painless. If a polyp is found, your doctor may remove it in the office. You may feel a mild pinch or cramping. The polyp tissue is sent to a lab to confirm it is benign.

Treatment

Treatment is only needed if the polyp causes symptoms or looks unusual. Most polyps can be removed easily in a doctor's office.

Self-care at home

• No specific self-care is needed for cervical polyps
• Monitor symptoms and report any changes to your doctor
• If you have bleeding, keep track of it

Medical treatments

The most common treatment is removal of the polyp during a procedure called polypectomy. This is usually done in the doctor's office using small forceps or a wire loop. Sometimes a small area of the cervix may be treated with heat or cold to prevent regrowth. No specific medications are used.

When is surgery considered?

Surgical removal is very rarely needed. In most cases, removal is a simple outpatient procedure.

Living with this condition

If you have a cervical polyp, you can continue your normal activities. Most polyps do not affect daily life. After removal, you may have light spotting for a day or two.

Lifestyle tips

• Avoid sexual intercourse or using tampons for a few weeks after removal if advised by your doctor
• Attend follow-up appointments as recommended

Diet and exercise

No specific diet or exercise changes are needed. A healthy lifestyle supports overall well-being.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Finding a growth can be concerning, but remember that cervical polyps are almost always benign. Talk to your doctor if you have anxiety.

Prevention

There is no known way to prevent cervical polyps. Regular gynecological exams can help detect them early.

Vaccines

The HPV vaccine can prevent certain cervical infections that may lead to abnormal changes, but it does not specifically prevent polyps.

Screening programmes

Routine Pap smears and pelvic exams can help detect polyps and other cervical changes.

Complications

If left untreated

• Rarely, a polyp may become precancerous (this is very uncommon)
• Bleeding may become heavy or cause anemia
• Infection (if the polyp becomes inflamed)

Long-term outlook

The outlook is excellent. Almost all cervical polyps are benign. Removal is simple and usually cures any symptoms. Recurrence is possible but not common.

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