Cervical Polyp

Polyp

WHAT IS A CERVICAL POLYP?

Small, fleshy, fragile, bulbous growths with a stalk arising from the lining inside the uterus and protruding through the cervix (picture above). They may be single or multiple.

AFFECTS

All ages but more common in childbearing age.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

  • Unexpected spotting of blood in-between menstrual periods.
  • Spotting of blood after sexual intercourse or bowel movements.
  • Vaginal discharge – mostly white but may be blood tinged or foul smelling.

CAUSES

Cervical polyps are caused by cervix inflammation from infection, erosion or ulceration. They frequently accompany chronic infections in the vagina or cervix, although they are not contagious. The small growths are usually benign, but in very rare cases, they represent early cancer of the cervix.

RISK INCREASES WITH

HOW TO PREVENT

To prevent infections of vagina or cervix that can precede cervical polyps:

  • Wear cotton panties to prevent accumulation of excess heat and moisture, which can make you susceptible to vaginal and cervical infections. Avoid panties made from non-ventilating materials.
  • Avoid contracting gonorrhea or other sexually transmitted diseases by having single partner and safe sex practices.

DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES

  • Suggestive symptoms.
  • History and physical exam by a doctor.
  • Laboratory studies, such as a Pap smear and examination of the vaginal discharge.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

None expected, but in very rare instances, cervical polyps may become malignant.

PROBABLE OUTCOME

Usually curable with surgery. One may feel brief, mild pain during the procedure and have mild to moderate cramps for several hours. Spotting of blood from the vagina may occur for 1 or 2 days.

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

  • Use small sanitary pads to protect your clothing from creams or suppositories.
  • Keep creams or suppositories in the refrigerator, to prevent melting in our climate.
  • Cervical polyps are removed either with a wire snare, electrocautery or cryocautery (liquid nitrogen). This is often be done on an outpatient basis. Discuss with your doctor, cauterization of the cervix after removing the polyp to prevent regrowth.
  • A polyp that accompanies cervicitis (inflammation or infection of the cervix) may require more extensive surgery.

MEDICATION

You may be prescribed antibiotics either orally or in vaginal suppositories or creams to fight infection.

ACTIVITY

No restrictions. Delay sexual relations until your doctor determines that healing is complete on a follow-up pelvic exam.

DIET

No special diet.

CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY, IF

  • You have suggestive symptoms.
  • The following occur after treatment:
    • Discomfort persists longer than 1 week.
    • Symptoms recur.
    • Unexplained vaginal bleeding or swelling develops.
  • New, unexplained symptoms develop.
  • Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.