Dr Dimple Doshi

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Uterine and Cervical Polyps: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Uterine polyp Image

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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