Cervical polyps

Treatment:

Removal is typically done as a simple, outpatient procedure. Gentle twisting of a cervical polyp is frequently enough to remove it, however, normally one is removed by tying a surgical ligature around the base and cutting it off. Removal of the base is done by electrocautery or laser vaporization. Because many polyps are infected, an antibiotic may be administered after the removal, either prophylactically or with any early signs of infection. Although most cervical polyps are benign, the excised tissue should be sent to a pathologist for microscopic examination.

Expectations (prognosis):

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

Complications:

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

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you are a woman, 20 years old or older, and have had no prior pelvic examination and Pap smear.

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

• every year initially.
• for women up to age 35 or 40: every 2 to 3 years after having 3 negative, consecutive annual Pap smear tests and a single sexual partner or no sexual partner.
• every year for women over 35 or 40.
• every year for women who have had multiple sexual partners.
• every year for women who are taking oral contraceptives (birth control pills).
• every 6 months for women who have a history of HPV (genital warts).
• the frequency recommended after an abnormal Pap smear.