Cervical Polypectomy  

What Is a Cervical Polyp? 

A cervical polyp is a small, soft, finger-like growth on the cervix, the opening between the uterus and the vagina. They can appear alone or in clusters, and are often connected to the cervix by a thin stalk. 

Most cervical polyps are small, non-cancerous growths that often go unnoticed. They’re usually discovered during routine exams and are especially common in women over 20, particularly those who’ve had children. 

While the exact cause isn’t always known, they’re often linked to hormonal fluctuations, chronic inflammation, pregnancy, or even certain infections. 

Why Remove a Cervical Polyp? 

Some cervical polyps don’t cause any issues and can be safely monitored. But many times, removal is recommended to: 

• Rule out pre-cancer or other abnormalities 

• Stop bleeding or discharge caused by the polyp 

• Prevent discomfort during intercourse 

• Avoid recurrent infections 

• Provide clarity and peace of mind 

If your provider notices a polyp during an exam, they’ll explain your options. In most cases, polypectomy is quick, easy, and resolves the issue on the spot. 

What to Expect During a Polypectomy 

At Balance Medical, cervical polyp removal is performed in-office; no anesthesia or hospital visit required. 

Here’s how it works: 

• The procedure starts like a standard pelvic exam. 

• A speculum is used to gently visualize the cervix. 

• The polyp is grasped with a sterile instrument and gently twisted or snipped off at the base. 

• If needed, a cauterizing solution or instrument may be used to prevent light bleeding. 

Most women feel only mild pressure or cramping (if anything at all) and the entire procedure typically takes under 10 minutes. 

This is one of those procedures that sounds scarier than it is. Most women are surprised by how easy it feels. 

Recovery Timeline

Minimal downtime

Recovery and Aftercare

There’s very little downtime after a cervical polypectomy. You may experience:

• Light spotting for a few days
• Mild cramping (usually manageable with over-the-counter medication)
• Slight watery discharge as the cervix heals

We recommend holding off on intercourse, tampons, and vigorous activity for a few days to let your body heal comfortably.

You’ll be able to return to work or your normal routine the same day. We’ll send the removed polyp to the lab for routine testing and follow up with results as soon as we have them.

Is It Cancer? 

It’s very rare. The overwhelming majority of cervical polyps are benign. However, we send all removed tissue to pathology to confirm that everything is normal…just to be safe. 

Catching and removing them early is part of what makes routine pelvic exams and Pap smears so valuable. 

Will It Come Back? 

In most cases, once the polyp is removed, it doesn’t return. However, some women may develop new polyps in the future, especially if the underlying cause (like inflammation or hormonal imbalance) isn’t addressed. 

If you experience recurring polyps, we’ll help you explore long-term options, including hormone balancing or preventative treatment. 

Why Choose Balance Medical? 

We get it: no one wants to hear the words “you have a growth.” But we’re here to take the anxiety out of that moment. At Balance, you’ll find a welcoming, relaxed setting…no stiff, white-coat vibes here. Our gentle, skilled providers walk you through every step, offering real explanations and clear follow-up with absolutely no scare tactics. Same-day procedures are available when needed, and most importantly, we treat you like a person, not just a diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cervical Polypectomy