What are the early symptoms of cervical polyps?

The early symptoms of cervical polyps mainly include contact bleeding, abnormal vaginal discharge, abnormal menstruation, bloating in the lower abdomen, and pain during sexual intercourse. Cervical polyps are benign neoplasms formed by local hyperplasia of cervical mucosa. Early symptoms may be mild and easily ignored.

1. Contact bleeding

Contact bleeding is the most common early manifestation of cervical polyps, usually a small amount of bright red bleeding after intercourse, gynecological examination, or vaginal douching. The amount of bleeding is generally small and may appear as blood streaks mixed with leucorrhea or spotting. The surface blood vessels of cervical polyps are rich and fragile, and mechanical stimulation can easily cause capillary rupture. If contact bleeding occurs repeatedly, it is recommended to seek medical treatment promptly for a clear diagnosis.

2. Abnormal vaginal discharge

Cervical polyps may cause an increase in the amount of leucorrhea, which is often mucus or mucopurulent and can be yellow or light red in color. Polyp tissue may stimulate the cervical glands to hypersecretise, and an odor may occur if combined with infection. Pay attention to perineal cleansing on a daily basis and avoid using irritating vaginal lotions.

3. Abnormal menstruation

Some patients may experience prolonged menstrual periods, increased menstrual flow, or intermenstrual spotting. Polyps may affect the normal contraction of the cervix, resulting in incomplete shedding of the endometrium. If the menstrual cycle changes for more than 3 months, it is recommended to perform a gynecological ultrasound examination to rule out other pathologies.

4. Feeling of distension in the lower abdomen

Larger cervical polyps may cause pelvic compression symptoms, manifested as dull pain or a feeling of distension in the lower abdomen, which is especially aggravated after standing for a long time or after exertion. This discomfort is related to the enlargement of the polyp and the stretching of the surrounding tissue, and is usually not accompanied by severe pain.

5. Pain during sexual intercourse

When the polyp is located close to the external os of the cervix, dull pain may occur due to collision or pulling during sexual intercourse. The pain is mostly temporary but may affect the quality of sexual life. It is recommended to avoid strenuous sexual intercourse, and if necessary, the size and location of polyps can be assessed through gynecological examination.

If you find the above symptoms, you should seek medical advice as soon as possible and make a clear diagnosis through gynecological examination, colposcopy or pathological biopsy. It is necessary to keep the vulva clean and dry on a daily basis, avoid frequent vaginal douching, and wear cotton breathable underwear. Regular cervical cancer screening is recommended, and women over the age of 30 are recommended to undergo a combined HPV and TCT test every 3 years. Pay attention to a balanced diet and supplement with appropriate amounts of vitamin C and zinc to help enhance mucosal repair capabilities.