Polyps

The exact cause is unknown but they tend to grow when there is more of the hormone oestrogen in the body.

Polyps are generally non-cancerous (benign) growths although some can be cancerous or can eventually turn into cancer.

Polyps often cause no symptoms and are found coincidentally during an ultrasound scan. However, if they do cause symptoms these could be irregular menstrual bleeding which may be unpredictable and variable in length and heaviness. There may be bleeding between periods or excessive heavy menstrual bleeding. After the menopause they may cause vaginal bleeding.

They can often be suggested by ultrasound scan but may require sonohysterography (an ultrasound scan where fluid is inserted into the uterus to give a better view of the lining of the womb) or direct visualisation during a hysteroscopy for confirmation.

Small polyps (<1cm) can be managed by monitoring them without intervention because they may spontaneously shrink without treatment. Polyp removal should be considered in which the polyps are causing health issues or pain, postmenopausal women or women with fertility issues.

A cervical polyp can be removed in the outpatient clinic and it is not painful. Women may experience mild discomfort similar to period pain afterwards and should avoid intercourse for 24-48 hours.