Can you get pregnant with cervical polyps?

Written by Tao Zhong E
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on January 01, 2025
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Cervical polyps generally form when a local area of cervical mucosa is stimulated by inflammation, leading to localized proliferation and the emergence of a solid tumor mass, which protrudes as a pedunculated lesion of varying sizes, from as small as a grain of rice to even three to four centimeters in length. However, it is usually possible to consider pregnancy after removal of the polyp, typically two weeks later, or after the next menstrual period, as it does not affect the ability to conceive. Moreover, it is generally advisable to remove the polyps upon discovery, since if not removed, they may cause recurring bleeding during pregnancy, which can complicate the monitoring of the pregnancy. However, cervical polyps are usually benign, with a low likelihood of being malignant. Thus, whether cervical polyps are detected through symptoms or during a physical examination, it is generally recommended to remove them first before considering pregnancy, although cervical polyps themselves do not impact fertility.

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What should I do about cervical polyps?

Cervical polyps are a type of chronic cervicitis. Cervical polyps are local protrusions formed by the hyperplasia of the cervical canal mucosa, known as cervical polyps. Cervical polyps often have a stalk that protrudes from the base towards the external orifice of the cervix. Once cervical polyps are discovered, a cervical polyp removal procedure can be performed. If there is bleeding during the procedure, hemostasis can be achieved using LigaSure or microwave. After the surgery, sexual activity should be avoided for one month, and antibiotic treatment should be administered for three to five days.

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Is cervical polyp serious?

Cervical polyps are not serious, and the majority of them are caused by chronic cervical inflammation. Cervical polyps can generally be removed in an outpatient setting at a hospital, and the removed polyp should be sent for pathology. The vast majority of these polyps are benign, with only a very small minority having the potential to become malignant. Therefore, having cervical polyps is generally not a serious issue. The polyps can be removed and appropriate anti-inflammatory treatment can be administered thereafter. Most cervical polyps are not problematic. If there is any concern, one can also undergo cervical cancer screening, which generally involves a TCT (ThinPrep Cytologic Test) and HPV (Human Papillomavirus) virus testing. These tests help identify the presence of cervical cancer and its precursors. If the cervical cancer screening shows no issues, and it's simply a case of cervical canal polyps, it is not serious, and removal can be performed in an outpatient setting in the hospital.

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Can cervical polyps be felt?

Cervical polyps are not detectable by touch; a gynecological internal examination is required where a speculum is used to dilate the vagina to view the cervix. This allows for the observation of any cervical polyps, their size, and based on the examination results, timely surgical treatment can be administered. Cervical polyps are caused by cervical inflammation that leads to localized tissue hyperplasia exhibiting polypoid changes. Once cervical polyps are identified, it is crucial to promptly proceed with further cervical cancer screening. If there is no HPV infection and TCT is normal, polypectomy should be performed. Post-surgery, a pathological examination is necessary. It is also advised to avoid cold exposure, exhaustion, and spicy or irritating foods to maintain health.

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Can cervical polyps heal themselves?

Cervical polyps can sometimes heal on their own. If the cervical polyp is small or has a thin stalk, there is a possibility that it might become necrotic and fall off, but this scenario is relatively rare. Most cervical polyps require surgical treatment. However, the surgery for cervical polyps is relatively simple; the stalk of the polyp can be destroyed using laser or radiofrequency, causing it to fall off. Additionally, if cervical polyps are not treated, they might cause irregular vaginal bleeding, and there is a possibility of malignant transformation, although the rate of malignancy is quite low.

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Can you have sexual intercourse with cervical polyps?

Patients with cervical polyps can easily experience bleeding during sexual intercourse. Therefore, if cervical polyps are present, the first step should be their removal. If bleeding during sexual intercourse persists after the removal, it is essential to undergo precancerous cervical screening. This is because contact bleeding during intercourse can occur if there are precancerous lesions in the cervix, and timely treatment is necessary. Precancerous cervical screening, which includes HPV and TCT tests, is a mandatory examination for women over the age of 30, allowing for the early detection of precancerous cervical changes and cervical cancer.