What are cervical polyps and what to do if you think you have one
Cervical polyps are considered tumors but the growths are typically benign (non-cancerous). The growths are found on the walls of the canal that connects the vagina and uterus.
Polyps can vary in size but most measure between one and two inches. Some women experience the growths in clusters while others only have a single polyp.
Women who gave birth multiple times and are in their 40s and 50s are most likely to develop cervical polyps.
Different Types of Polyps
Women can develop either Ectocervical or Endocervical polyps. Both types can be gray, purple, red, or an off-whitish color.
The polyps resemble plant bulbs with longish stems and typically vary in size.
The most common type of polyps on the cervix is endocervical polyps. Found growing in the cervical canal, they typically appear in women who are not going through or have experienced menopause.
Ectocervical polyps are more common in postmenopausal females and tend to grow on the outer wall of the cervix.
Causes for the Growths
Physicians are not sure why some women develop cervical polyps and others never experience the issue.
A possible reason may be an abnormal response to estrogen in the body.
Estrogen levels may be too high. If the uterus, vagina, or cervix is inflamed it may result in the cervical growths.
Clogged blood vessels may be another reason polyps develop.
Symptoms
How do you know if polyps are present on your cervix?
Some women do not experience any symptoms while others may notice some bleeding after sexual intercourse, douching, or after experiencing menopause.
Other symptoms can include spotting between your monthly cycle or a foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
When to See a Physician
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s best to schedule an appointment with your physician.
A Pap smear or pelvic exam is typically recommended. Women who are not experiencing any symptoms should still have the procedures performed during their annual health checkups.
Even though this type of polyp is rarely cancerous, it’s still a good idea to be proactive with your health.
Treatment Options
Sometimes, treatment is not necessary when symptoms are not present. However, your physician will continue to monitor your progress.
When symptoms are present the most common form of treatment is surgery.
There are three surgical methods your doctor can use to remove polyps on your cervix.
Forceps can gently remove the growth or your physician may choose to tie a surgical string around the polyp. The string is then used to pull the growth out.
The other surgical method is pulling the polyp out by its base. Your doctor twists the polyp before removing it.
Finally, the polyp’s base is destroyed using laser surgery, liquid nitrogen, or electrocautery ablation. Destroying the base helps prevent regrowth.
Single polyp removal is typically an in-office procedure but larger masses are treated in a surgical setting.
If you are experiencing any symptoms or are over 40 years of age, it’s a good idea to visit your physician for a Pap smear or pelvic exam.
