What Is Cervical Polypectomy?
Cervical polypectomy is a minor surgical procedure to remove polyps from the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina. Cervical polyps are small, soft, finger-like growths that form on the cervical tissue. They are usually noncancerous (benign) and common in women, especially during their reproductive years or around menopause. Most polyps do not cause serious problems, but they can lead to symptoms like bleeding between periods, bleeding after sex, heavy menstrual bleeding, or unusual vaginal discharge.
In a cervical polypectomy, a doctor gently removes these growths through the vagina using small surgical tools. The procedure is usually quick and done under local anesthesia, so the patient feels little or no pain. Removing these polyps can relieve symptoms and allow the tissue to be examined under a microscope to rule out any rare abnormalities.
Purpose & Benefits of Cervical Polypectomy
● Removes abnormal cervical growths (polyps)
● Helps reduce bleeding between periods or after intercourse
● Reduces unusual vaginal discharge
● Helps confirm the diagnosis by testing the polyp tissue
● Prevents possible irritation or infection
● Provides comfort and peace of mind
● Help rule out rare pre-cancerous or cancerous changes
Who May Need Cervical Polypectomy?
● Women with persistent bleeding between periods
● Women who bleed after sexual intercourse
● Patients with unusual vaginal discharge
● Women with a polyp seen on pelvic exam or ultrasound
● Patients with discomfort or irritation in the cervical area
● Women whose polyps may be large or cause symptoms
Types of Cervical Polypectomy
Although the main goal is to remove cervical polyps, the approach may vary slightly depending on polyp size, location, and symptoms:
1. Office Polypectomy
This is done in a doctor’s office or clinic. Local anesthesia is used, and the polyp is removed quickly with small instruments. This is the most common method.
2. Operative Polypectomy in Theatre
If the polyp is large or difficult to reach, the procedure may be done in an operating room under sedation or general anesthesia for better comfort.
3. Hysteroscopic Polypectomy
In some cases, especially when the polyp extends into the cervical canal or uterus, a small camera (hysteroscope) is used to guide the removal. This gives a clear view and helps with precise removal.
Cervical Polypectomy Procedure: Step-by-Step
1. Your doctor reviews your history and symptoms and may do a pelvic exam and ultrasound to locate the polyp.
2. You may be advised to avoid eating for several hours before the procedure if sedation is planned.
3. - For office removal, local anesthesia is given to numb the cervix.
- For larger polyps or theatre procedures, sedation or general anesthesia may be used.
4. - The doctor gently grasps and removes the polyp using forceps or a loop.
- If a hysteroscope is used, a small camera and instruments are guided through the cervix for removal.
5. - The area is cleaned, and bleeding is controlled.
- The removed tissue is sent for pathology (lab testing) to check for any abnormal cells.
The procedure is usually quick, lasting from 5 to 30 minutes, and many women go home the same day.
Recovery & Aftercare
● You may feel mild cramping or slight discomfort for a day or two.
● You may have light vaginal bleeding or spotting for a few days after the procedure.
● Your doctor may advise rest for the first 24 hours.
● Avoid sexual intercourse and use of tampons for about 1–2 weeks to reduce infection risk.
● Keep the genital area clean and follow your doctor’s instructions.
● Pain relief medicines like paracetamol can help if needed.
Most women recover quickly, and symptoms like bleeding or discharge improve after the polypectomy.
Risks & Possible Complications
Cervical polypectomy is generally safe, but like any medical procedure, it has possible risks:
● Mild pain or cramping after the procedure
● Light bleeding for a few days
● Infection (rare), which may need antibiotics
● Spotting or discharge for a short time
● Rarely, heavy bleeding requires treatment
Contact your doctor if you experience fever, heavy bleeding, severe pain, or foul-smelling discharge after the procedure.
Cervical Polypectomy vs Other Cervical Procedures
Cervical Polypectomy
● Removes polyps from the cervix
● Usually done in a clinic with local anesthesia
● Quick recovery
Colposcopy with Biopsy
● Using a magnifying camera to examine the cervix
● Takes small samples of tissue for testing
● May be done if abnormal screening results are present
Endocervical Curettage (ECC)
● Scrapes tissue inside the cervical canal
● Often done during colposcopy to check for abnormal cells
While polypectomy focuses on removing polyps, other procedures are used for diagnosis or evaluation of abnormal cervical changes.
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