"Polyps are benign growths in the womb lining. They are formed from the overgrowth of cells in the normal tissue lining the womb, which then extend into the womb cavity. Polyps can also be found in the cervix, and are usually benign (non-cancerous)," says the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, KK Women's and Children's Hospital (KKH), a member of the SingHealth group .

Causes and risk factors for polyps

It is not clear what causes polyps. It may be due to hormonal imbalance and irregular periods. Having polyps may put you at higher risk of having a miscarriage during pregnancy.

Signs and symptoms of polyps

Although polyps may not produce any symptoms, some women may experience symptoms such as:

• Irregular vaginal bleeding
• Bleeding after sexual intercourse
• Heavy menstrual bleeding

Treating polyps

Small polyps that don’t cause any problems may resolve on their own, and may not need to be treated.

Polyps causing heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding and/or suspected to be cancerous will have to be removed surgically, via hysteroscopy – the insertion of a scope that allows visualisation of the womb cavity from vaginally. Polyps may sometimes recur after they have been removed.

Ref: O18