Uterine and Cervical Polyps
Uterine and cervical polyps are small growths that develop from the lining of the uterus (womb) or cervix. They are usually soft, benign (non-cancerous) growths and may occur as a single polyp or in clusters. While many polyps cause no symptoms, some can lead to abnormal bleeding, fertility difficulties or other gynaecological symptoms.
Commonality
Uterine polyps are relatively common, particularly in women in their 40s and 50s and after menopause. However, polyps can develop at any age.
Causes
The exact cause of uterine and cervical polyps is not always clear, but several factors are thought to contribute.
Possible causes and risk factors include:
Hormonal fluctuations, particularly oestrogen stimulation
Chronic inflammation of the cervix or uterine lining
Obesity
Certain medications, including tamoxifen
Symptoms
Many women with polyps have no symptoms and are diagnosed during routine scans or examinations.
When symptoms occur, they may include:
Irregular bleeding between periods
Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
Bleeding after sexual intercourse
Bleeding after menopause
Unusual vaginal discharge
Pelvic discomfort or cramping
Effects on Fertility
In some women, uterine polyps can affect fertility by:
Interfering with embryo implantation
Contributing to difficulties conceiving
Potentially increasing the risk of early pregnancy loss
Removing polyps may improve the chances of conception, particularly for women undergoing fertility treatment such as IVF or those experiencing recurrent miscarriage.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis may involve a combination of examination and imaging tests.
Investigations may include:
Pelvic examination
Transvaginal ultrasound
Saline infusion sonohysterography (SIS)
Hysteroscopy
Biopsy or histological analysis when appropriate
Hysteroscopy is considered the gold standard for diagnosing uterine polyps because it allows direct visualisation of the uterine cavity and enables removal during the same procedure.
Treatments
Treatment depends on the size of the polyp, symptoms, age and fertility goals.
Management options may include:
Monitoring (watchful waiting)
Observation of small, symptom-free polyps
Minimally invasive treatment
Hysteroscopic polypectomy
Outpatient cervical polyp removal
Recovery following polypectomy is usually quick. Most women experience:
Mild cramping or light bleeding for a few days
Return to normal daily activities within 24 hours
Minimal disruption to work or routine
Patients are typically advised to avoid sexual intercourse and strenuous exercise for about one week.
Follow-up depends on the size, type and pathology results of the removed polyp.
Histological analysis
Laboratory examination of removed tissue to confirm the polyp is benign
Treatment aims to relieve symptoms, improve fertility where relevant and exclude abnormal or cancerous changes.
Ongoing Care
Ongoing care may include:
Follow-up after polyp removal
Review of pathology results
Monitoring for symptom recurrence
Repeat imaging when required
Regular gynaecological check-ups
While polyps cannot always be prevented, measures that may help support long-term gynaecological health include:
Maintaining a healthy weight
Regular physical activity
Avoiding smoking
Attending routine gynaecological examinations and scans when recommended
Follow-up recommendations depend on the size, type and pathology findings of the removed polyp.
Living with the Condition
Being diagnosed with a uterine or cervical polyp can be worrying, but most polyps are benign and straightforward to treat. Many women experience reassurance once the diagnosis is confirmed and appropriate treatment is provided.
Most polyps are not harmful, but they may require treatment because they can:
Cause persistent abnormal bleeding
Affect fertility in some women
Interfere with embryo implantation
Carry a small risk of precancerous or cancerous changes, particularly after menopause
With appropriate assessment and management, the outlook is generally very good.
When to See a Specialist
You should seek specialist assessment if you experience:
Bleeding between periods
Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
Bleeding after sexual intercourse
Bleeding after menopause
Unusual vaginal discharge
Fertility difficulties
Persistent pelvic discomfort
Early assessment can help identify the cause of symptoms, provide reassurance and ensure appropriate treatment where needed.