What is a cervical polypectomy and why do need one?
A cervical polyp is a small piece of tissue, usually on a stalk, that grows on the cervix (neck of the womb). Sometimes the cervical polyp is broad-based, where it does not have a stalk but sits on the cervix. Often they cause no symptoms and are found as a result of other examinations. Polyps are usually benign (non-cancerous).
Less than 1% may have pre-cancerous or cancerous changes within them; it is therefore advisable to have them removed. A polypectomy is the removal of a polyp.
What are the risks of a cervical polypectomy?
The procedure is very low risk but may cause an infection or heavier bleeding.
What happens during a cervical polypectomy?
This is normally done in the outpatient clinic. You will be asked to undress from the waist down and lie down on an examination couch.
A speculum (the instrument used to open up the vagina) is passed into the vagina to expose the cervix. The polyp may be on a stalk and is, therefore, removed by grasping the polyp with blunt forceps (a grasping, scissor-like instrument) and gently twisting the polyp until it is released from its base.
If the polyp is broad-based, a local anaesthetic is injected into the cervix to numb the area. A heated wire loop is used to shave the polyp off. The tissue is then sent to the laboratory for analysis. The procedure is not painful although you may experience a dull ache while it is being carried out.
Pain relief is not usually needed during or after the procedure but you can take your normal pain relief tablets (following the recommended dosage) if necessary.
Removal under general anaesthetic (i.e. you are asleep) is only recommended if the polyp is very large and possibly originating from inside the uterus, or if you find the speculum examination too uncomfortable.
What happens after the procedure?
We will give you a sanitary towel to wear, as you will have some discharge which can continue for three to five days. If silver nitrate was used, the discharge may be dark brown in colour for the first few days.
It is particularly important that you do not have sexual intercourse until all bleeding has stopped as this may disrupt the healing process.
You should not use tampons while you are bleeding or passing discharge.
You can take a bath or shower as normal.
If you feel any discomfort you should take a pain reliever such as paracetamol, following the instructions on the packet.
If you have not understood any of the aftercare – please ask the doctor or nurse to re-explain before you go home.
Will I have a follow-up appointment?
You will not routinely be given a follow-up appointment. You will receive a letter with the results of your polyp in approximately four to six weeks.
What shall I do if I have a problem or concern?
If you have any concerns, please:
- Contact or visit your GP
- Call the colposcopy department between 09:00-17:00 on 0191 445 6178 or Ward 26 for advice out of hours on 0191 445 3004
- Contact 111 who can priced clinical advice as required
- Only attend your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department or call 999 in the event of an emergency