The cervix is a structure that connects the uterine cavity to the vagina through the cervical canal. Cervical polyps are small benign tumours that develop in the neck of the womb, also known as the cervix, in response to various stimuli such as inflammation, exposure to oestrogen, etc. They can appear on the surface or inside the cervical canal. It is a relatively common pathology that occurs in 2-5% of the population, much more frequently between the ages of 40 and 50.
It is usually asymptomatic, but it can manifest itself with heavy menstrual bleeding, long periods, bleeding on non-menstrual days or after sexual intercourse.
Cervical polyps can be diagnosed by direct visualisation during a gynaecological examination.
Treatment is based on resection or excision of the polyp. In most cases, the polyp can be removed with surgical forceps as soon as the diagnosis has been confirmed. In the case of larger polyps, minor surgery may be required.
The prognosis is good in the vast majority of cases; only a very small percentage can become malignant.
If you have had cervical polyps in the past, you are more likely to have new ones in the future.
- Tanos V, Berry KE, Seikkula J, Abi Raad E, Stavroulis A, Sleiman Z, Campo R, Gordts S. The management of polyps in female reproductive organs. Int J Surg. 2017 Jul;43:7-16.
- Uçar MG, İlhan TT, Uçar RM, Karabağli P, Çelik Ç. Diagnostic Value of Visual Examination of Cervical Polypoid Lesions and Predictors of Misdiagnosis. J Low Genit Tract Dis. 2016 Oct;20(4):356-9
