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DESCRIPTION
Cervical polyps are small, fragile, bulbous or finger-like growths on stalks protruding through the cervix (lower third of the uterus) from the lining inside the uterus (endometrium) or on the surface of the cervix or endocervical canal. They may be single or numerous.
Polyps should not be confused with cervical cysts. Cysts are different than polyps. Cysts are filled with mucous from the glands of the cervix. They can get big enough to be felt as a soft round lump on the cervix with self exam. There is no need for treatment unless the cysts are large in size; then, a laser or freezing probe may be used for treatment. Often cysts go away without any treatment. An exam by a health care provider must be done if a cyst is suspected.
FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Abnormal vaginal bleeding:
Unexpected spotting of blood between monthly menstrual periods.
Spotting of blood after sexual intercourse or bowel movements.
Bleeding may be the only signs that these polyps are present. You would not be able to usually feel these during sex or self exam.
Abnormally heavy periods (menorrhagia).
Bleeding after menopause.
Vaginal discharge, usually a white or yellow mucous discharge (leukorrhea). Can appear as a watery, bloody discharge.
Polyps may not cause symptoms.
A pelvic exam reveals smooth, red or purple, finger-like projections from the cervical canal. A cervical biopsy typically reveals mildly atypical cells and signs of infection.
CAUSES
Cervical polyps are caused by cervix inflammation and/or irritation from infection, erosion or ulceration. They grow from the tube part of the cervix. They frequently accompany chronic infections in the vagina or cervix, although they are not contagious. They may be an abnormal response to increased levels of estrogen, or clogged cervical blood vessels. The small growths are usually benign, but in very rare cases, they represent early cancer of the cervix.
Cervical polyps are relatively common, especially in women over age 20 who have had children. Only a single polyp is present in most cases, but sometimes two or three are found. They are rare in females who have not started menstruating.
RISK INCREASES WITH
Diabetes mellitus.
Recurrent vaginitis or cervicitis.
Pregnancy - They often occur during pregnancy because of hormonal changes.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES
To prevent vaginal or cervix infections that can precede cervical polyps:
- Wear cotton underpants or pantyhose with a cotton crotch to prevent accumulation of excess heat and moisture, which can make you susceptible to vaginal and cervical infections.
- Avoid contracting sexually transmitted diseases by having your sexual partner wear a condom during intercourse. Any infections should be treated in a timely manner.
EXPECTED OUTCOME
Usually curable with minor surgery. They are usually easy to remove by your health care provider. You may feel brief, mild pain during the procedure and have mild to moderate cramps for several hours. Spotting of blood from the vagina may occur for 1 or 2 days. Cervical polyps may return in the future but are usually harmless in young women.
After menopause, these harmless polyps are rare. If they occur in later life, they may be a sign of a serious medical problem. In this case, a closer exam, including a look within the uterus, would be necessary. These growths can be cancer.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Bleeding and some mild pain with removal of the polyps.
In very rare instances, cervical polyps may become malignant. Infections may occur after removal.
TREATMENT
GENERAL MEASURES
Surgery to remove cervical polyps with a wire share, electrocautery, laser, or liguid nitrogen may be used. Other methods may be a gently twisting of a cervical polyp to remove it or tying a surgical string around the base and cutting it off. This can often be done in a simple office outpatient procedure. The cervix may be cauterized after removing the polyp to prevent regrowth of the same or another polyp.
Don't douche unless it is recommended.
Use small sanitary pads to protect your clothing from creams or suppositories.
A polyp that accompanies cervicitis (inflammation or infection of the cervix) may require more extensive surgery.
Although most cervical polyps are non-cancerous (benign), the removed tissue should be sent to a laboratory for further examination.
MEDICATION
Usually no medications are necessary for this disorder, but because many polyps are infected, an antibiotic may be given after the removal, even if there are no or few signs of infection.
ACTIVITY
No restrictions. Delay sexual relations until a follow-up pelvic examination determines that healing is complete.
DIET
No special diet. Apricots, cantaloupe, mangos, carrots, pumpkins and yams contain beta-carotine and promote the health of mucous membranes. These fruits and vegetables also provide vitamin C, which fights infections that lead to the growth of polyps.
HOLISTIC, HERBAL, & NUTRITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
Cervical Polyps - Chart shows which herbs are helpful during each stage of the menstrual cycle.
Before Ovulation Throughout Cycle No Cycle Restrictions Herbs Butcher's Broom
Extract - 1/4 to 1 teaspoon 3 times a day
or as directed by manufacturer or herbalist.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon Water - 1 to 2 fluid ounces
Tincture of Cinnamon - 1/2 to 1 drachm
Oil 1/2 to 3 drops per day
or as directed by manufacturer or herbalist.
Ginger
1/4 to 1 teaspoon 3 times a day
or as directed by manufacturer or herbalist.
Infusion - Place one teaspoon of fresh ginger in cup of boiling water, infuse for 5 mins, drink whenever needed.
Mustard Seed
Use as directed by herbalist or manufacturer
Yellow Cedar
Extract - 1/4 drachm, three to six times a day
Consult herbalist on correct dosage, do not self administer Fenugreek
Extract - 1/4 to 1 teaspoon 3 times a day or as directed by manufacturer or herbalist Vitamins Vitamin A Betatene
Vitamin C
Vitamin E
The health of the mucous membranes depends on levels of vitamin A, beta-carotene and vitamin E. Vitamin C with bioflavonoids improves tissue healing and prevents recurring infections and *allergies. These supplements are recommended for all types of polyps.
Daily Dosages:
- Vitamin A, 25,000 IU (do not exceed more that 10,000 IU if pregnant)
- Vitamin E, with mixed tocopherols, 400 IU.
- Vitamin C, with bioflavonoids, 1,000 mg
Herbal remedies provide excellent support to the body's own defenses. Drink 3 tablespoons of juice daily made from green, leafy herbs such as dandelion leaves and watercress. They provide beta-carotene as a powerful antioxidant for health cell growth and cell repair as well as enzymes for a strong immune system.
Homeopathy - Chronic conditions can be resolved by an experienced homeopath, who can achieve lasting results. Below are a sample of the many specific remedies prescribed. For cervical polyps take Calcarea, 6c, before and after surgery to remove cervical polyps. Take four times daily for up to fourteen days.
POLYPS SUPPLEMENTAL PRODUCTS
Information, causes and symptoms of polyps, non-cancerous growths that develop on finger-like structures.
Vitamin C 1000 with Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000mg - 250 Vcaps
Nature's Way Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids provides antioxidant protection for many of the body's important enzyme systems.Alive! Whole Food Energizer Multi-Vitamin & Mineral, w/ Naturally Occurring Iron (No Iron Added) Nature's Way - 90 VCaps
No other supplement contains more life-giving nutrients than ALIVE! It is better absorbed into your blood stream because its tablets disintegrate up to 5X faster than other leading brands.Vitamin A, 10,000 IU, 100% Natural - 100 Softgels
Nature's Way Vitamin A is an important nutrient in maintaining cell membrane integrity. It also plays an important role in proper bone formation, reproduction and vision.Vitamin E, d-alpha tocopherol 400 IU - 100 Softgels
Vitamin E has potent antioxidant activity, supplies oxygen to the blood, aids in strengthening capillary walls, and plays a beneficial role in cancer and cardiovascular disease prevention, anti-aging benefits, circulation, wound-healing, immune function, nervous system function, PMS, hot flushes, diabetes, vascular disease, eye health, tissue repair, athletic performance, leg cramps, skin and hair health, and alleviating fatigue.Aloe Vera Whole Leaf Juice, 99.7% Pure, Certified Organic, Nature's Way - 1 Liter (33.8 fl.oz.)
Nature's Way Aloe Vera Whole Leaf Juice offers you the rich benefits of the most potent part of the aloe plant.Butchers Broom, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
Butchers Broom is a laxative and diuretic and it is also used to improve circulation problems, hemorrhoids, varicose veins, arteriosclerosis, and blood clots.CapsiCool, Cayenne Formula, Nature's Way 780mg - 100 Caps
Cayenne has been one of the world's most popular herbal supplements since the time of the early Peruvians. CapsiCool is a special formulation that provides the benefits of Cayenne without the burning feeling and discomfort in the stomach that otherwise may be experienced.Cinnamon Bark Tincture, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
Cinnamon bark is warming to the body, an analgesic, carminative, antiseptic, and antibacterial.Cayenne & Ginger, Nature's Way 465mg - 100 Caps
Stimulate and support digestion with Cayenne & Ginger. The invigorating effects of Cayenne and the soothing effects of ginger, marshmallow and other supportive herbs help with digestion and circulation.
NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...
You have symptoms of cervical polyps such as abnormal vaginal bleeding, abnormally heavy periods, and/or abnormal vaginal discharge.
Any of the following occurs after treatment:
- Discomfort persists longer than 1 week.
- Symptoms recur.
- Unexplained vaginal bleeding or swelling develops.
Woman should call their health care provider for a pap smear 3 years after the first time they have sexual intercourse, but no later that the age of 21. Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have not obtained a pap smear at recommended intervals of:
- Every year at first.
- For women up over 30: every 2 to 3 years after having three negative, consecutive annual Pap smear tests and a single sexual partner or no sexual partner.
- Every year for women who have had multiple sexual partners.
- Every year for women who were prenatally exposed to DES.
- Every year for women who have weakened immune systems, including those who have HIV or who have taken long-term steroid medications.
- After an abnormal Pap smear (at the frequency recommended by your health care provider).
Mountain Rose Bulk Herbs
Mountain Rose Aromatherapy Oils
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