When to worry about bleeding between periods with cervical polyps

Cervical polyps are small growths on the cervix, the lower part of the womb. Their delicate surface may bleed when it is touched, including during sex or an examination, and spotting can also occur between periods. Bleeding has several possible causes, so the symptom alone cannot identify its source.

A clinician may examine the cervix and ask about your cycle, pregnancy possibility, medicines, discharge, and pain. A visible polyp may be removed and sent for laboratory assessment, depending on the findings.

Record when the bleeding starts, how long it lasts, whether it follows sex, and whether you have cramps or discharge. Book a routine appointment with a gynaecology or primary-care clinician, particularly when the pattern is new or keeps recurring. Take a pregnancy test if pregnancy is possible, and mention any hormonal contraception or blood-thinning medicine.

Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding, faintness, severe or one-sided pelvic pain, fever, or bleeding during a possible pregnancy. Contact a clinician promptly if bleeding happens after menopause, follows sex repeatedly, or comes with foul-smelling discharge. These signs need assessment because they can reflect problems beyond a cervical polyp.

Ask whether the cervix needs an examination, whether the polyp should be removed, and whether testing for infection or pregnancy is appropriate. Ask which changes should prompt an earlier review.