Do cervical polyps require surgery?

Nov 11, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I was diagnosed with cervical polyps and am very concerned. Do cervical polyps require surgical removal?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu
Whether cervical polyps require surgery mainly depends on their size, the symptoms they cause, and their impact on quality of life and health. Small cervical polyps generally do not require surgical treatment, while larger ones usually require surgery. If a cervical polyp is small and not causing any symptoms, immediate surgery may not be necessary. However, since there is a possibility that the polyp may grow larger over time and a very small risk of malignancy, close monitoring is recommended. Additionally, non-surgical treatments such as medication, cryotherapy, or microwave therapy may be considered. Patients should also maintain a healthy lifestyle and good hygiene habits, including regular sleep patterns, moderate exercise, and proper personal hygiene. When cervical polyps are large, cause menstrual irregularities or abnormal vaginal bleeding, or if left untreated may increase the risk of infertility or trigger gynecological conditions such as vaginitis or pelvic inflammatory disease, surgical treatment becomes necessary. Common surgical procedures include polypectomy, which is generally a simple procedure that does not require hospitalization. During the procedure, the doctor will gently remove the polyp from the cervix using specialized instruments. If the polyp is large or deeply seated, the procedure may be performed under local anesthesia. After surgery, patients may experience mild bleeding or discharge, which is normal and typically resolves on its own within a few days. Most women can quickly return to normal activities after surgery, but sexual intercourse and the use of tampons should be avoided until the bleeding has completely stopped. If cervical polyps recur frequently, further testing may be needed to rule out chronic cervicitis or HPV infection. If a cervical polyp is detected, prompt medical attention is advised.