CERVICAL POLYPS

 Basic information

description

Cervical polyps are a common disorder that involves a small growth on the cervix. The cervix is about an inch long and is the narrow end of the uterus where it meets the vagina. Polyps vary in size and look like a bulb on a thin stem. There may be one (usually) or groups of polyps. A polyp can't be seen or felt by a woman. They occur most often in women over age 20 who have had at least one child.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Polyps may cause no symptoms. They are often found on a routine pelvic exam.
• Bleeding between monthly menstrual periods.
• Heavier bleeding during periods.
• Spotting of blood after sexual intercourse.
• Vaginal discharge.

causes

Exact cause is unknown. Inflammation of the cervix may be involved. This can be from infection, erosion, or other problems. The majority of polyps are benign (not cancerous). In very rare cases, they represent early cancer of the cervix. They are not contagious.

risk increases with

• Women over age 20 who have had one child.
• Recurrent vaginitis or cervicitis (inflammation or infection of the cervix).

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

• No specific preventive measures.
• Get regular pelvic exams and Pap tests. This is the best way to identify cervical polyps.

expected outcomes

Polyps are easily treated and seldom grow back.

possible complications

• Infection can develop following surgery.
• In very rare cases, cancer may first appear as a polyp.
• After treatment, polyps may grow again on another area of the cervix.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Your health care provider will do a pelvic exam. Medical tests are usually not needed.
• Treatment involves surgery to remove the polyps. This can usually be done in a simple office procedure. All tissue removed is examined in a laboratory for any sign of cancer.
• Polyps are usually removed by gently twisting the stem with forceps to break it off.
• A dilation and curettage (D & C) may be done. This involves a scraping procedure.
• You may feel brief, mild pain during the procedure. Mild to moderate cramps may occur for several hours. Spotting of blood may last for a few days.
• If the polyp is large or has a thick stalk, it may require surgery that is more extensive. This may be done in a hospital.
• Don't douche unless it is medically recommended.
• Use small sanitary pads to protect your clothing from creams or suppositories.

medications

• Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen for minor pain.
• Antibiotics may be prescribed if signs of an infection are present. Antibiotics can interfere with the effectiveness of some birth control pills. If you are currently taking birth control pills, discuss this with your health care provider.

activity

No limits. Delay sexual relations until a follow-up pelvic exam confirms that healing is complete.

diet

No special diet.

 notify our office if

• You or a family member has symptoms of cervical polyps.
• The following occur after treatment:
  • Discomfort persists longer than 1 week.
  • Unexplained vaginal bleeding or swelling develops.

Special Notes: