Polyps are small lumps thought to be caused by an irritation to the cervix. They grow from the endocervical canal of the cervix. Bleeding with sex or between periods are the only signs that these polyps are present. You would not be able to feel these during sex or self examination. If you have these signs and polyps are found by your doctor, they are easily removed. They may return in the future but are usually harmless in young women.

After menopause, these harmless polyps are rare. If they occur in later life, they may be a sign of a serious medical problem. In this case, a closer exam, including a look within the uterus, would be necessary. These growths can sometimes be cancerous.

Cysts are different from polyps. They are filled with mucous from the glands of the cervix. They can get big enough to be felt as a soft round lump on the cervix with self examination. There is no need for treatment unless the cysts are large in size; then, a laser or freezing probe may be used for treatment. Often cysts go away without any treatment. An examination by a doctor should be done if a cyst is suspected.

Article #6414

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