A cervical polyp is a small growth that appears in the cervix. This is a cellular mass that protrudes out of the cervical canal. Cervical polyp is most commonly seen in women.

Not all polyps require treatment, and many women with polyps do not even know they have them. However, if a woman is experiencing certain symptoms, it is important to contact her doctor.

Indicators of Cervical Polyps

There may be no symptoms if you have cervical polyps, meaning that many women go months or even years without realizing they have one. In some cases, cervical polyps may cause certain symptoms that you should be aware of.

1. Abnormal Bleeding

The most common sign of cervical polyps is often abnormal bleeding between periods. The bleeding might be light pink and light or dark brown. You may also notice that your period has increased blood flow or it has become too painful.

In some women, cervical polyps can result in bleeding after menopause or sex.

2. Vaginal Discharge

Another indicator of cervical polyps is the presence of abnormal vaginal discharge. The discharge may be colored, smelling strong, or sticky, depending on the individual. If the polyp is infected, then the discharge may contain pus.

In some women, polyps are asymptomatic and produce no visible discharge.

3. Pain During Sexual Intercourse

Polyps grow abnormally in the cervix and sometimes extend into the vaginal area. This means that sex can be painful due to rubbing or pressure on the cervix polyp.

If a woman experiences pain during sexual activity or bleeding afterward, a cervical polyp could be suspected.

4. Pelvic Pain

Large cervical polyps can sometimes cause pelvic pain that can be severe. This might be caused by the pressure the polyp is exerting on the womb or the surrounding pelvic structures. The pain can be sporadic and periodic, lasting for hours or days.

5. Urinary Irregularities

Polyps may press against the bladder when they grow excessively. This can cause irritation and frequent urination, especially during the nighttime.

Women with cervical polyps can frequently experience infection and inflammation of the bladder, leading to urinary tract or bladder infections.

Related Article Symptoms of Cervical Polyps

6. Infertility

While cervical polyps are not always a significant problem, they can cause infertility in rare cases if they grow large enough. The polyps can block the entry of sperm into the uterus, thereby hindering fertilization.

If you struggle with conceiving over an extended period, talk to your doctor about cervical polyps.

7. Asymptomatic

Cervical polyps can also be asymptomatic in some women. In such cases, they do not cause any local or general symptoms. The diagnosis of asymptomatic cervical polyps is often made incidentally during a routine pelvic examination or an ultrasound.

Diagnosing Cervical Polyps

After careful screening of risk factors and medical history, your doctor may suggest one of the following tests to diagnose cervical polyps-.

1. Pelvic Examination

During a pelvic examination, your doctor will take a detailed medical history and conduct a visual and physical examination of your pelvic areas.

If a cervical polyp is identified, a biopsy will most likely be ordered to figure out the extent and nature of the growth.

2. Speculum Examination

To locate cervical polyps, your physician may perform a speculum examination. A speculum is an instrument that spreads your vaginal walls apart. The cervical canal opening will then be observable.

If the doctor sees a small-growth, he or she will likely take a biopsy.

3. Ultrasound

If cervical polyps are suspected or if you have recurring post-menopausal bleeding, an ultrasound can potentially reveal any growths. An ultrasound of the pelvis will produce sound waves to obtain images of your uterus and cervix.

4. Colposcopy

A colposcopy is like a pelvic examination, although more detail can be seen with a microscope. During the procedure, a colposcope will be used to zoom in on the cervix. If evidence of cervical polyps is identified, a biopsy will likely be ordered.

Conclusion

Cervical polyps are typically benign, but they can cause persistent issues related to health and wellbeing.

Any signs of abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge, pain during sex, unintended weight loss, and infection in the genital organs should be discussed with your doctor right away. You can reduce the risk of cervical polyps by adopting a balanced diet, sustaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and controlling your hormone levels.