Medicines for Cervical polyps

What it is

Cervical polyps are small growths that develop on the cervix (the neck of the womb), usually protruding into the vagina. They are common, particularly in women in their 40s and 50s and those who have had children, and are almost always benign (non-cancerous). Many cause no symptoms and are found by chance during a routine examination or cervical screening. When they do cause symptoms, these can include bleeding between periods, after sex, or after the menopause, unusually heavy periods, or an increase in vaginal discharge. Because these symptoms — particularly bleeding after sex or after the menopause — can also have other causes that need excluding, any such bleeding should be assessed, even though a polyp is a common and usually harmless explanation. Cervical polyps are typically diagnosed when seen during a speculum examination.

How it is treated

Cervical polyps that cause no symptoms may simply be monitored or, often, removed for convenience and to allow them to be checked. Polyps causing symptoms (such as bleeding or discharge) are usually removed, which is often a simple, quick procedure that can sometimes be done in the clinic — the polyp is gently twisted or snipped off, which typically resolves the symptoms. The removed polyp is usually sent for examination to confirm it is benign, as, although very rarely, a growth could be something else. Because abnormal bleeding can have other causes, a doctor will also ensure the person is up to date with cervical screening and consider whether any further assessment (such as looking at the womb lining) is needed, particularly with bleeding between periods or after the menopause. The reassuring message is that cervical polyps are common and almost always harmless, and easily removed if they cause symptoms — but any abnormal bleeding should be checked to be sure.