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polyps are smooth, red, finger-shaped growths in the cervix, the passage between the uterus and the vagina.
The cause of cervical
polyps is not entirely understood. They may result from infection. They can
also result from long-term (chronic) inflammation, an abnormal response to an
estrogen levels, or congestion of blood vessels in the
The most common symptom a
woman will notice is abnormal vaginal bleeding that occurs:
Cervical polyps may be inflamed and rarely can become
infected, causing vaginal discharge of yellow or white mucus. Polyps often
occur without symptoms.
The most common treatment is
removal of the polyp during a
pelvic exam. This can be done simply by gently
twisting the polyp, tying it tightly at the base, or removing it with special
forceps. A solution is applied to the base of the polyp to stop any
Polyps do not need to be removed unless they bleed, are
very large, or have an unusual appearance.
cervical polyps are noncancerous (benign). Your doctor may decide to send the polyp to the lab to have it tested, but testing is not always needed.
polyps most often occur in women older than 20 who have had several
pregnancies. Most cervical polyps are first discovered during a routine pelvic
exam. Usually only a single polyp develops, though sometimes two or three are
found during an exam.
December 12, 2012
Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine & Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
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