Polyp Of Cervix : Definition, cause, Sign and symptoms.......

I. Definition
Cervical polyps are small, elongated tumors that grow on the cervix. The cervix is the narrow canal at the bottom of the uterus that extends into the vagina.

The cervix connects the uterine cavity and the upper portion of the vagina. It acts as the passageway for sperm to fertilize an egg, which could result in pregnancy. During labor, the cervix becomes thinner and wider. This allows the baby to pass through the birth canal.

II. Sign And Symptoms

Polyps on the cervix may not cause any noticeable symptoms. However, see your gynecologist right away if you experience vaginal discharge of white or yellow mucus, or abnormally heavy periods.

You should go to hospital if you experience vaginal spotting or bleeding:

• after sexual intercourse
• between periods
• after douching
• after menopause

   III. Causes

     High estrogen levels

Estrogen levels naturally fluctuate throughout a woman’s life. Your estrogen levels will be highest during childbearing years, during any pregnancies, and in the months leading up to menopause.

Inflammation

An inflamed cervix appears red, irritated, or eroded. Some of the known causes of cervical inflammation include:

• bacterial infection
• HPV infection, which can also cause warts
• herpes
• yeast infections
• pregnancy
• miscarriage
• abortion
• hormonal changes

IV. Diagnosis

The doctor will see smooth, fingerlike growths on the cervix that appear red or purple. The two types of cervical polyps are ectocervical and endocervical.

Ectocervical polyps arise from the outer surface layer of cells on the cervix. Endocervical polyps arise from the cervical glands, and they’re the most common type of cervical polyp. Postmenopausal women are more likely to have ectocervical polyps, and premenopausal woman are more likely to have endocervical polyps.

Biopsies, or tissue samples, of the polyps are taken and sent to a laboratory for testing. Results usually show benign polyp cells. In rare cases, abnormal cells or precancerous patterns of growth known as neoplastic changes may be present.

V. Treatment

Sometimes, cervical polyps will disconnect from the cervix on their own. This can occur while a woman is menstruating or during sexual intercourse.

Doctors don’t routinely remove cervical polyps unless they cause symptoms. Removing cervical polyps is a simple procedure that your doctor can perform in their office. No pain medication is necessary. Methods for removing cervical polyps include:

• twisting the polyp off at the base
• tying surgical string around the base of the polyp and cutting it away
• using ring forceps to remove the polyp

Methods to destroy the base of the polyp include the use of:

• liquid nitrogen
• electrocautery ablation, which involves using an electrically heated needle
• laser surgery