Cervical Polyps Overview
Learn About Cervical Polyps
Cervical polyps are fingerlike growths on the lower part of the uterus that connects with the vagina (cervix).
Vaginal bleeding - polyps
The exact cause of cervical polyps is not known. They may occur with:
- An abnormal response to increased levels of the female hormone estrogen
- Chronic inflammation
- Clogged blood vessels in the cervix
Cervical polyps are common. They are often found in women over age 40 who have had many children. Polyps are rare in young women who have not started having their period (menstruation).
Polyps do not always cause symptoms. When symptoms are present, they may include:
- Very heavy menstrual periods
- Vaginal bleeding after douching or intercourse
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding after menopause or between periods
- White or yellow mucus (leukorrhea)
The provider can remove polyps during a simple outpatient procedure.
- Smaller polyps may be removed with gentle twisting.
- Electrocautery may be needed to remove larger polyps.
The removed polyp tissue should be sent to a lab for further tests.
Kamlesh Sanghvi is an Obstetrics and Gynecologist in Dayton, Ohio. Dr. Sanghvi and is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cervical Polyps. His top areas of expertise are Melorheostosis, Osteopenia, Melorheostosis with Osteopoikilosis, and Postmenopausal Osteoporosis. Dr. Sanghvi is currently accepting new patients.
Kettering Independent Medical Group Inc
Michael Guy is a Gynecologic Oncologist and an Oncologist in Kettering, Ohio. Dr. Guy and is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cervical Polyps. His top areas of expertise are Endometrial Cancer, Endometrial Stromal Sarcoma, Malignant Mixed Mullerian Tumor, Oophorectomy, and Hysterectomy. Dr. Guy is currently accepting new patients.
Dayton Osteopathic Hospital
Percy Frasier is an Obstetrics and Gynecologist in Dayton, Ohio. Dr. Frasier and is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Cervical Polyps. His top areas of expertise are Vaginal Bleeding Between Periods, Neuralgia, Endometriosis, Pelvic Congestion Syndrome, and Intrauterine Device Insertion. Dr. Frasier is currently accepting new patients.
Most polyps are not cancerous (benign) and are easy to remove. Polyps do not grow back most of the time. Women who have polyps are at risk of growing more polyps.
There may be bleeding and slight cramping for a few days after removal of a polyp. Some cervical cancers may first appear as a polyp. Certain uterine polyps may be associated with uterine cancer.
Contact your provider if you have:
- Abnormal bleeding from the vagina, including bleeding after sex or between periods
- Abnormal discharge from the vagina
- Abnormally heavy periods
- Bleeding or spotting after menopause
Contact your provider to schedule regular gynecological exams. Ask how often you should receive a Pap test.
See your provider to treat infections as soon as possible.
Published Date: March 31, 2024
Published By: LaQuita Martinez, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Emory Johns Creek Hospital, Alpharetta, GA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
Choby BA. Cervical polyps. In: Fowler GC, ed. Pfenninger and Fowler's Procedures for Primary Care. 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 123.
Dolan MS, Hill CC, Valea FA. Benign gynecologic lesions: vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus, oviduct, ovary, ultrasound imaging of pelvic structures. In: Gershenson DM, Lentz GM, Valea FA, Lobo RA, eds. Comprehensive Gynecology. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 18.