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Cervical Polyps

Cervical Polyps are growths that are seen/found on the cervix. They appear as a small ball or oval-shaped appearing growth of tissue that attaches to the skin of an area such as the cervix.

The appearance has been described as “finger-like growths“.

They can be found on the Cervix, or the lower part of Uterus that attaches to the Vagina.  The exact cause is not known but changes in Inflammation process may play a role.

Typically cervical polyps can be found as early as just after menarche but they can also be seen in older women as well as postmenopausal women. The most common age is between the 40s and 50s. Often the polyp(s) needs to be distinguished with other possible cancers.

Most of the polyps are classified as benign – or without cancer but can cause other medical problems such as pain, abnormal bleeding, and more.

The growths of polyps can be either a single growth or more a “cluster” appearance.

Common Symptoms:

–  Vaginal Discharge
–  Abnormal vaginal bleeding
–  Abnormal vaginal bleeding after sexual intercourse
–  Abnormal vaginal bleeding after douching
–  Unexpected vaginal bleeding after Menopause
–  Foul smell of vaginal discharge
–  Vaginal mucus
–  Occasionally they are painful

Possible Risk Factors

1.)   Women who have given birth to one or more children
2.)  Women who have a higher level of Estrogen
3.)  Blood Vessels becoming clogged
4.)  Inflammation of cervix, vagina, or uterus

Possible causes of inflammation

–  Sexually transmitted disease
–  Yeast infections
–  Pregnancy
–  Miscarriage
–  Abortion
–  Bacterial infections

Two Different Types:

1.)  Ectocervical Polyps

–  Postmenopausal women are more likely to have
–  Growth of cells in the outer surface layer of the cervix

2.)  Endocervical Polyps

–  Most Common Overall Polyp
–  Growth of cells from the cervical glands inside the cervical canal
–  Most likely seen in women who are premenopausal

Treatment:

1.)  Removal consists of forceps

2.)  Surgical D&C

3.)  Hysteroscopy