Cervical polyps

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Cervical polyps

Female reproductive anatomy

Uterus

Polyps can be removed during a simple, outpatient procedure. Gentle twisting of a cervical polyp may remove it, but normally a polyp is taken out by tying a surgical string around the base and cutting it off. Removal of the polyp's base is done by electrocautery or with a laser.

Because many polyps are infected, an antibiotic may be given after the removal, even if there are no or few signs of infection. Although most cervical polyps are non-cancerous ( benign), the removed tissue should be sent to a laboratory for further examination.

Typically, polyps are benign and easily removed. Regrowth of polyps is uncommon.

Some cervical cancers may first appear as a polyp. Infections may occur after removal.

Call for an appointment if you have:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Abnormally heavy periods
• Abnormal vaginal discharge

Women should call their health care provider for a Pap smear  3 years after the first time they have intercourse, but no later than age 21.

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have not obtained a Pap smear at recommended intervals of:

• Every year at first
• For women up over 30: every 2 to 3 years after having three negative, consecutive annual Pap smear tests and a single sexual partner or no sexual partner
• Every year for women who have had multiple sexual partners
• Every year for women who were prenatally exposed to DES
• Every year for women who have weakened immune systems, including those who have HIV or who have taken long-term steroid medications
• After an abnormal Pap smear (at the frequency recommended by your health care provider)

Review Date: 05/10/2006
Reviewed By: Melanie N. Smith, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.