Cervical polyps are common, non-cancerous growths that can develop on the surface of the cervix, which is the narrow passage connecting the uterus to the vagina. These small, finger-like tissues are typically benign and often discovered during routine gynecological examinations. While their presence is usually harmless, healthcare providers often recommend their removal, and many individuals wonder about the level of discomfort involved in this routine procedure.
Understanding the Removal Procedure and What to Expect
Cervical polyp removal is typically a quick, outpatient procedure performed in a healthcare provider’s office. The method used often depends on the polyp’s size and location.
Common techniques include using specialized forceps to gently twist and remove the polyp from its base, a process known as polypectomy. Another approach may involve electrosurgery or cauterization, which uses heat to remove the polyp and seal the blood vessels, minimizing bleeding. Sometimes, a healthcare provider might use surgical scissors or a scalpel for larger polyps, carefully excising them from the cervical tissue.
During these procedures, many individuals report sensations of pressure or mild cramping rather than sharp pain. The cervix has fewer pain-sensing nerve endings, which contributes to the generally low level of pain experienced during the removal itself. Some individuals might feel a brief pinching sensation as the polyp is detached. The entire process is usually completed within a few minutes, allowing most individuals to resume their normal activities shortly thereafter.
Managing Discomfort After Removal
Following the removal of a cervical polyp, it is common to experience some mild discomfort. Many individuals report light cramping, similar to menstrual cramps, for a day or two after the procedure. This cramping is a normal response as the cervix begins to heal.
Light spotting or bleeding is also expected for several days, sometimes up to one or two weeks, as the site where the polyp was removed heals. This bleeding is typically lighter than a regular menstrual period.
To manage any discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can be effective. Applying a heating pad to the lower abdomen may also help alleviate cramping sensations.
Healthcare providers usually advise avoiding the use of tampons, douching, and sexual intercourse for about one to two weeks after the procedure. This precaution helps to prevent irritation and infection at the healing site, promoting a smoother recovery.
When to Contact Your Doctor
While mild discomfort and spotting are normal after cervical polyp removal, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. You should contact your doctor if you experience heavy vaginal bleeding that soaks through more than one sanitary pad per hour for several consecutive hours. This could indicate a complication requiring prompt evaluation.
Severe or worsening pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter pain medication also requires medical consultation. Other concerning signs include a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, chills, or a foul-smelling vaginal discharge. These symptoms could suggest an infection, which needs timely diagnosis and treatment to prevent further complications.