Home › Conditions › Cervical Polyps
Cervical Polyps: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Removal
Quick answer: Cervical polyps are small, usually benign growths on the cervix. They often cause no symptoms but can lead to spotting, bleeding after sex, or discharge. At Eunice Women's Clinic near Seongsu Station, Dr. Eun Mi-na, an English-speaking female OB-GYN, finds polyps during a speculum exam, checks the cervix and uterus, and discusses removal and lab testing.
What are cervical polyps?
Cervical polyps are small, finger-like growths on the surface of the cervix or inside the cervical canal. They are usually red or purple, soft, and a few millimeters to a few centimeters long. They are common, especially in people in their 40s and 50s and in people who have had children. Almost all cervical polyps are benign (not cancer).
What are the symptoms of cervical polyps?
- Often none; many polyps are found during a routine Pap smear
- Spotting or bleeding between periods
- Bleeding after sex
- Heavier periods
- Bleeding after menopause
- White or yellow vaginal discharge
What causes cervical polyps?
The exact cause is not known. They may be linked to long-term inflammation of the cervix ( cervicitis), an abnormal response to estrogen, or blocked blood vessels in the cervix. Cervical polyps are not caused by HPV.
When should I see a doctor?
See a gynecologist if you have bleeding after sex, spotting between periods, unusual discharge, or any bleeding after menopause. These symptoms can also have other causes, such as infection or cervical changes, so an exam is important.
Seek emergency care (call 119) if you have heavy bleeding that soaks a pad every hour, bleeding with dizziness or fainting, or bleeding with severe pain or a positive pregnancy test.
How are cervical polyps evaluated at the clinic?
- Speculum exam: most cervical polyps can be seen directly during a pelvic exam.
- Pap smear and HPV test: to check the cervix for cell changes, if screening is due.
- Colposcopy: a magnified exam of the cervix, if needed.
- Transvaginal ultrasound: to check for polyps inside the uterus (endometrial polyps), which can cause similar bleeding.
- Infection tests: when discharge or inflammation is present.
| Test | Out-of-pocket price (KRW) |
|---|---|
| Liquid-based Pap (LBC) | 40,000 |
| Colposcopy | 30,000 |
| Gynecologic ultrasound (non-covered) | 70,000 |
Many tests are covered by NHIS when medically indicated. Prices may change; confirm with the clinic.
What are the treatment options for cervical polyps?
- Removal (polypectomy): small polyps with a thin stalk are often removed during an office visit by gently twisting them off. This is usually quick. Some people feel mild cramping, and light spotting for a day or two is common.
- Pathology testing: the removed polyp is usually sent to a laboratory to confirm it is benign.
- Observation: small polyps without symptoms may sometimes be monitored.
- Referral: large polyps, polyps with a wide base, polyps inside the uterus, or polyps with unusual features may need removal at a hospital by referral.
- Treating inflammation: infection or cervicitis is treated if present.
Polyps can sometimes grow back, so regular gynecologic checkups are recommended. Individual results vary.
Getting care in English near Seongsu Station
Eunice Women's Clinic is on the 8th floor of Bethel Place, 120 Achasan-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul. The building is across the crosswalk from Seoul Subway Line 2 Seongsu Station Exit 3, about a 1-minute walk ( directions). Dr. Eun Mi-na, a female board-certified OB-GYN, holds consultations about cervical polyps in English.
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Mon, Wed, Fri | 10:00–19:00 (lunch 13:30–14:30) |
| Tue, Thu | 10:00–20:00 (lunch 13:30–14:30) |
| Sat | 10:00–14:00 (no lunch break) |
| Sun and public holidays | Closed |
Booking is recommended. You can book through Naver Booking, the KakaoTalk channel (search "유니스산부인과"), or by phone at +82-2-467-3100 ( how to book). Call or message to check same-day availability.
Book an appointment in English
Eunice Women's Clinic · 8F Bethel Place, 120 Achasan-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul · Seongsu Station (Line 2) Exit 3
Phone: +82-2-467-3100 · KakaoTalk channel · Naver Booking
Mon, Wed, Fri 10:00–19:00 · Tue & Thu 10:00–20:00 · Sat 10:00–14:00 · Lunch 13:30–14:30 · Closed Sundays & public holidays
Frequently asked questions
Are cervical polyps cancer?
Almost all cervical polyps are benign. Rarely, a polyp contains precancerous or cancerous cells, so removed polyps are usually sent for laboratory testing. Regular cervical screening is also important because polyps are not related to HPV.
Does removing a cervical polyp hurt?
Removal of a small cervical polyp is usually quick and done during an office visit. Most people feel mild pressure or cramping. Light spotting for a day or two afterward is common. Discomfort varies from person to person.
Can a cervical polyp cause bleeding after sex?
Yes. Cervical polyps have many small blood vessels and can bleed easily when touched, including during sex. Bleeding after sex can also have other causes, such as infection or cervical changes, so an exam is recommended.
Do cervical polyps come back?
Most cervical polyps do not come back after removal, but new polyps can form over time. Regular gynecologic checkups and cervical screening help find any new polyps early, before they cause bleeding or other symptoms.
Can I have sex after cervical polyp removal?
Doctors often suggest avoiding sex, tampons, and swimming for a short time after removal to allow the cervix to heal. Dr. Eun will give you specific aftercare advice based on your procedure and findings.
Related pages
This page provides general health information for patients and does not replace a consultation with a doctor. Individual results vary. If you have severe pain, heavy bleeding, fainting or other urgent symptoms, call 119 or go to the nearest emergency room. Page updated September 2026.