Polypectomy

If you are experiencing abnormal uterine bleeding, bleeding between periods, bleeding after menopause, or symptoms related to a uterine or cervical polyp, polypectomy may be recommended. At Surgical Solutions Network, we offer private cervical polyp surgery at our Burnaby, British Columbia surgical centre for patients seeking timely access to care in Canada. A polypectomy is a procedure to remove a polyp, which is a small growth of tissue. In gynaecology, the term most often refers to removing an endometrial polyp, which grows from the lining of the uterus, and or a cervical polyp. Removing a polyp can help relieve symptoms, allow the tissue to be examined, and help guide next steps in your care. 

Why Choose Surgical Solutions Network for Private Gynaecology Care? 

Through Surgical Solutions Network’s accredited surgical centres, patients may benefit from timely access to care, experienced gynaecologic surgeons and trained teams, modern equipment for hysteroscopic assessment and treatment, and a co-ordinated, patient-centred experience focused on education, comfort, and recovery. 

What Does a Polypectomy Treat? 

A polypectomy is a procedure to remove a polyp, which is a small growth of tissue. In gynaecology, the term most often refers to removing an endometrial polyp, which grows from the lining of the uterus, and or a cervical polyp. 

Your surgeon may recommend a polypectomy to: 

• Treat abnormal uterine bleeding, such as heavy periods, bleeding between periods, or bleeding after menopause 

• Remove a polyp seen on ultrasound or other imaging 

• Investigate bleeding or discharge when a polyp is suspected 

• Improve the uterine cavity environment in select patients with infertility or recurrent pregnancy loss 

• Remove a polyp that is causing symptoms such as cramping, pelvic pressure, or abnormal discharge 

Many polyps are benign, which means non-cancerous, but removal allows tissue to be examined to confirm the diagnosis and guide next steps. 

How Does a Polypectomy Work? 

Polypectomy can be done in different ways depending on where the polyp is located and how it is best removed. 

Before the Procedure 

• You may have an ultrasound or other imaging to identify the polyp and its size and location 

• Your medical history, medications, and allergies will be reviewed 

• Your care team will provide instructions about fasting, if sedation or anaesthesia is planned, and which medications to stop or continue, especially blood thinners 

• In some cases, you may be advised to take medication to help soften or open the cervix 

Where the Procedure Is Performed 

Polypectomy may be performed: 

• In a clinic setting for certain cervical polyps or selected uterine polyps, or 

• In a surgical setting with sedation or general anaesthesia, especially for hysteroscopic removal of uterine polyps 

Your surgeon will recommend the safest and most comfortable approach for your situation. 

Uterine (Endometrial) Polypectomy – Hysteroscopic Approach 

This is the most common approach for uterine polyps. 

• A speculum is placed in the vagina, similar to a Pap test 

• A thin camera, called a hysteroscope, is inserted through the cervix to view the inside of the uterus 

• The uterine cavity is gently expanded with fluid for clear visibility 

• The polyp is removed using specialised instruments passed through the hysteroscope 

• The polyp is sent to pathology for examination 

Cervical Polypectomy 

For certain cervical polyps, removal may be performed in a clinic setting: 

• The cervix is visualised with a speculum 

• The polyp is gently removed using appropriate instruments 

• If needed, the base may be treated to reduce bleeding 

• The tissue is sent to pathology 

Your surgeon will explain exactly how your polypectomy will be performed and what to expect on the day of the procedure. 

Benefits of Polypectomy 

For appropriately selected patients, polypectomy may offer: 

• Improved bleeding symptoms, especially if the polyp is contributing to heavy or irregular bleeding 

• Diagnosis confirmation through tissue analysis 

• Minimally invasive treatment, often with no abdominal incisions when done hysteroscopically 

• Short recovery time for many patients 

• In select cases, improved fertility outcomes, depending on individual factors and the type and location of the polyp 

Who Might Be a Candidate for Polypectomy? 

You may be considered for polypectomy if: 

• A polyp is suspected or confirmed on imaging or exam 

• You have abnormal bleeding or symptoms that may be related to a polyp 

• You are postmenopausal and a polyp is present 

• A polyp is affecting the uterine cavity and removal is recommended based on your goals, including fertility goals 

A different approach may be recommended if: 

• There is an active pelvic infection 

• You are pregnant, unless specifically advised by your care team 

• There are findings that suggest a more complex condition requiring a different surgical plan 

Your surgeon will recommend the most appropriate approach based on the polyp’s size, location, your symptoms, and your overall health. 

Risks and Possible Complications 

All medical procedures carry risk. Most complications are uncommon, but may include: 

• Cramping and temporary bleeding or spotting after the procedure 

• Infection 

• Bleeding 

• Reaction to anaesthesia or medications, when used 

• Uterine perforation, which is a small hole in the uterus and is uncommon but more relevant with hysteroscopic procedures 

• Cervical injury, which is uncommon 

• Scar tissue formation inside the uterus, which is uncommon and more likely after more extensive intrauterine procedures 

• Polyp recurrence over time 

Your surgeon will review your individual risks and what they mean for your situation. 

Recovery and Rehabilitation After Polypectomy 

Recovery depends on how the polypectomy is performed. 

Immediately After the Procedure 

• Mild to moderate cramping is common 

• Light bleeding or spotting may occur for a short time 

• If you had sedation or general anaesthesia, you’ll be monitored in recovery and will need someone to take you home 

Activity 

• Many patients return to light activities within 24 to 48 hours 

• You may be advised to avoid intercourse, tampons, or swimming for a short period, especially after hysteroscopic removal 

When to Seek Urgent Medical Care 

Contact your care team or seek urgent care if you have: 

• Fever or chills 

• Heavy bleeding, such as soaking pads, or bleeding that worsens 

• Severe pain not controlled with recommended medication 

• Foul-smelling discharge 

• Dizziness, fainting, or shortness of breath 

Your care team will provide post-procedure instructions tailored to what was done during your surgery. 

How to Prepare for Polypectomy 

Before polypectomy, your care team may: 

• Review your medical history, medications, and allergies 

• Provide fasting instructions if sedation or anaesthesia is planned 

• Discuss pain control and what to expect during and after the procedure 

• Advise on timing in your menstrual cycle, depending on the reason for removal 

• Arrange pre-procedure testing if needed 

Planning transportation, if sedation is used, and taking it easy afterwards can help support recovery. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Next Steps: Book Your Consultation Today 

If you’ve been told you may have a uterine or cervical polyp, or you’re experiencing abnormal bleeding, we’re here to help. Contact Surgical Solutions Network to request your surgical consultation. Visit our Contact Us page or give us a call, and a member of our team will help guide you through the next steps.