Polyps Specialist

What are cervical polyps?

Cervical polyps are finger-like growths on your cervix that are usually red or purple. Cervical polyps may be categorized as:

• Ectocervical: arise from cells on the outer surface of your cervix
• Endocervical: arise from the cervical glands, which are mucus-secreting glands in the cervical mucosa

What causes cervical polyps?

The precise cause of cervical polyps is not known, but they are believed to be the result of infection or an abnormal reaction to a change in estrogen levels. They commonly appear during pregnancy, when your estrogen levels rise, and they do not occur in girls who have not yet had a period.

Cervical polyps may also be caused by clogged blood vessels or chronic inflammation of your cervix, vagina, or uterus.

How can I tell if I have cervical polyps?

Most cervical polyps are asymptomatic. Your doctor at Martin, Lee & Page OBGYN looks for polyps on your cervix during a pelvic examination. You should contact your gynecologist if you notice any spotting or bleeding:

• After you’ve had sex
• After douching
• Between your menstrual periods
• After you are in menopause

Other symptoms of cervical polyps that require immediate medical attention include extremely heavy periods or a white or yellow vaginal discharge.

How are cervical polyps treated?

Polyps are usually benign growths. Many fall off by themselves during menstruation. However, in rare instances, polyps are precancerous lesions and removing them reduces your risk of cancer. Your doctor only recommends polyp removal (polypectomy) if the polyp is precancerous or causes discomfort.

Polypectomy is usually a simple, in-office procedure that does not require anesthesia. You may feel mild pain as the polyp is removed. Large polyps require surgical removal in the hospital under general anesthesia.

Your doctor uses one of the following methods to remove cervical polyps:

• Twisting it off at the base
• Tying the base with surgical string, then cutting off the polyp
• Removing the polyp with ring forceps
• Destroying the polyp’s base with liquid nitrogen, electrocautery ablation, or a laser

After your polypectomy, you may have mild to moderate cramps and some spotting. These should resolve within 1-2 days.

If you have vaginal discharge, unexpected vaginal bleeding, or other symptoms of cervical polyps, call the doctors at Martin, Lee & Page OBGYN or use the online booking tool to schedule an appointment.