What should you know about a large cervical polyp?

A cervical polyp is a growth arising from the cervix, the lower part of the womb that opens into the vagina. Many are non-cancerous, but a larger growth can rub, bleed or be visible during an examination. Symptoms may include bleeding between periods, bleeding after sex, or discharge. The appearance alone cannot confirm the cause, so a clinician may inspect the cervix and decide whether the polyp should be removed and sent for laboratory examination.

Size does not by itself establish whether a polyp is harmless or serious. Your clinician will consider your age, symptoms, examination findings and any pregnancy or treatment plans.

Arrange a gynaecology appointment, especially if the growth was found during an examination or you have repeated unusual bleeding. Bring a record of when bleeding occurs and mention pregnancy, fertility plans, medicines that affect bleeding, and any previous cervical test results. Removal may be recommended when the polyp is large, symptomatic, recurrent or difficult to assess. A hysteroscopic polypectomy is one procedure used to remove some gynaecological polyps; your clinician will explain whether it fits your situation.

Do not try to pull or treat a cervical growth yourself. Keep any planned cervical screening appointments unless your clinician gives different advice.

Seek urgent medical advice for heavy or persistent vaginal bleeding, faintness, severe pelvic pain, fever, or unusual discharge with feeling unwell. Contact a clinician soon for bleeding after sex, bleeding between periods, bleeding after menopause, or a polyp that seems to enlarge or protrude. These symptoms need assessment because several cervical and vaginal conditions can cause them.

Ask where the polyp is attached, whether its appearance is reassuring, whether removal is recommended, how tissue will be tested, and which changes should prompt earlier review.