Uterine and Cervical Polyps: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Introduction

Many women come to me worried about irregular bleeding, spotting, or discharge, only to discover that the cause is something quite common—uterine or cervical polyps. These growths are usually benign, but they can interfere with comfort, fertility, and peace of mind. The good news is that with early diagnosis and the right treatment, polyps are easily manageable.

What are uterine and cervical polyps?

Uterine and cervical polyps are overgrowths of the uterine lining or cervical tissue. They are soft, spongy, and sometimes firm, and may appear cherry-red, reddish-purple, or greyish-white in colour.

Uterine polyps grow inside the uterus, where pregnancy develops
Cervical polyps grow from the cervix, and may sometimes be visible outside the vagina

In my clinical experience, most women are surprised to learn how common polyps actually are.

What are the different types of uterine and cervical polyps?

Endometrial (uterine) polyps

Develop inside the uterine cavity
Can be single or multiple
May affect menstrual flow and fertility

Cervical polyps

These arise from the cervix and are of two types:

Endocervical polyps: Grow from inside the cervical canal
Ectocervical polyps: Grow on the outer surface of the cervix and may be visible on examination

What causes uterine and cervical polyps?

Polyps develop due to hormonal imbalance and local tissue overgrowth. Common contributing factors include:

Abnormal response to estrogen
Chronic infection or inflammation of the uterus or cervix
Obesity and excess body fat (increases estrogen levels)
High blood pressure
Increasing age and menopause
PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease)
Use of medications like tamoxifen for breast cancer

Dr. Dimple Doshi’s Tip:
Anything that increases long-term estrogen exposure can increase the risk of polyp formation.

What symptoms do uterine or cervical polyps cause?

Many polyps—especially small ones—may cause no symptoms at all. When symptoms are present, they may include:

Irregular menstrual bleeding
Prolonged spotting
Bleeding between periods
Bleeding after sexual intercourse
Heavy menstrual bleeding
Persistent vaginal discharge or recurrent infections
Postmenopausal bleeding
Pain or discomfort during intercourse

Any abnormal bleeding, especially after menopause, must always be evaluated.

How are uterine and cervical polyps diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a combination of examination and imaging:

Gynecological examination:
Can detect visible cervical polyps
Ultrasonography:
Helps identify polyps inside the uterus
Hysteroscopy:
Direct visualization of the uterine cavity; the most accurate method
Biopsy or D&C:
Polyps may sometimes be detected incidentally during tissue sampling

In my practice, hysteroscopy provides the clearest diagnosis with the least discomfort.

How are uterine and cervical polyps treated?

Treatment depends on size, symptoms, age, and reproductive plans.

Observation

Small, symptom-free polyps may be monitored with regular ultrasounds

OPD removal

Visible ectocervical polyps can often be removed safely in the clinic without anesthesia

Hysteroscopic polypectomy

Gold standard treatment
Minimally invasive
Complete removal under direct magnified vision
Best option for uterine polyps

Dilation and Curettage (D&C)

A blind procedure that removes the uterine lining along with the polyp
Less precise than hysteroscopy

Medications

Limited role
Progesterone tablets or GnRH agonists may temporarily shrink small polyps by counteracting estrogen

Dr. Dimple Doshi’s Tip:
Complete removal is important—partial treatment increases the risk of recurrence.

Can uterine polyps be prevented?

While polyps cannot always be prevented, certain steps reduce the risk:

Maintain a healthy body weight
Control blood pressure and metabolic health
Manage PCOD effectively
Attend regular gynecological check-ups
Treat vaginal and cervical infections promptly
Practice safe sexual habits

Conclusion

Uterine and cervical polyps are common, usually benign, and highly treatable conditions. Early detection through routine gynecological check-ups and timely treatment prevents complications such as heavy bleeding, infection, infertility, and anxiety.

At Vardaan Hospital, Goregaon West, Mumbai, I emphasize early diagnosis, minimally invasive treatment, and personalized care. If you notice abnormal bleeding or persistent discharge, do not ignore it—your body is asking for attention, and timely care makes all the difference.