Polypectomy is the removal of a polyp, a usually benign overgrowth of tissue, from the cervix or the lining of the uterus. Cervical polyps can often be removed in a few minutes during an office visit, while endometrial polyps are removed through the cervix with a hysteroscope. Every polyp is sent for pathology, because a small proportion contain precancerous or cancerous cells.
- Cervical polyp
- Office removal, about 5–10 min
- Endometrial polyp
- Hysteroscopic, about 15–30 min
- Anesthesia
- None or local · sedation for uterine
- Hospital stay
- Same-day discharge
- Recovery
- Light spotting for a few days
- Pathology
- Results in about 1 week
What are uterine and cervical polyps?
| Endometrial (uterine) polyp | Cervical polyp | |
|---|---|---|
| Where | Grows from the lining inside the uterus | Grows from the cervical canal, often visible at the opening |
| Common symptoms | Irregular or heavy bleeding, spotting between periods, bleeding after menopause | Spotting after intercourse, between periods; often none |
| How it is found | Ultrasound, hysteroscopy | Speculum exam, often during a Pap test |
| How it is removed | Hysteroscopic polypectomy | Twisted off or snipped in the office |
| Who has higher risk of abnormal cells | Postmenopausal women, those with bleeding, tamoxifen use | Rarely abnormal |
Do all polyps need to be removed?
Removal is generally recommended when a polyp:
- Causes abnormal bleeding; see abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Is found after menopause
- Is large or growing
- May be affecting fertility, or you are planning IVF
- Is cervical and bleeds or is visible on examination
Small endometrial polyps without symptoms in premenopausal women may be monitored, as some shrink on their own. Your gynecologist explains the balance of benefits and risks for your situation.
How polyps are diagnosed
Cervical polyps are usually seen during a speculum exam or Pap smear. Endometrial polyps are suspected on a transvaginal pelvic ultrasound, which at Yoonho is usually done on the day of your consultation. Saline-infusion ultrasound or a diagnostic hysteroscopy can confirm the diagnosis when the picture is unclear.
Polypectomy at Yoonho, step by step
- Consultation and ultrasound At Yoonho Women's Hospital in Apgujeong, Seoul, your symptoms are reviewed in English and the polyp is located by exam and ultrasound.
- Scheduling Uterine polypectomy is ideally booked shortly after your period ends. A pregnancy test is done beforehand.
- Cervical polypectomy The polyp is grasped and gently twisted off or snipped at its base; any bleeding is stopped with pressure or cautery. Most women feel only brief cramping.
- Hysteroscopic polypectomy Under sedation, a hysteroscope is passed through the cervix and the polyp is removed with fine instruments, without skin incisions.
- Recovery and aftercare You rest for about 1–2 hours after sedation and go home with written instructions in English.
- Results Pathology results are usually ready in about a week and explained in English, with a written report available.
A polyp inside the uterine cavity can cause spotting, irregular bleeding or difficulty conceiving.
The polyp is removed through the cervix with a hysteroscope and sent for pathology.
Recovery and possible risks
- Day 0–2 Mild cramping and light spotting or watery discharge. Use pads, not tampons.
- Day 1–2 Most women return to desk work.
- Up to 1–2 weeks Avoid intercourse, tampons, baths and swimming, or as advised.
Risks are low but include bleeding, infection and, with hysteroscopy, rare injury to the uterine wall. Polyps can recur, so new bleeding symptoms should be checked.
Cost and insurance for international patients
The cost depends on whether the polyp is cervical (office procedure) or uterine (hysteroscopy with sedation), and on pathology tests. You will receive a written estimate after consultation.
- Residents enrolled in National Health Insurance are usually covered for medically necessary polypectomy; see health insurance for foreigners.
- Travelers can request English documents for insurance claims.
See all procedures in surgical gynecology.
Why international patients choose Yoonho
Frequently asked questions
Are polyps cancerous?
Most uterine and cervical polyps are benign. A small proportion of endometrial polyps, particularly after menopause or with bleeding, contain abnormal cells, which is why every polyp is checked by pathology.
Can polyps come back after removal?
Yes, new polyps can grow over time. Removing the polyp at its base lowers the chance of regrowth in the same place, and any new bleeding should be checked.
Can uterine polyps affect fertility?
Polyps inside the uterus may interfere with implantation in some women. Removal is often recommended before fertility treatment.
Does cervical polyp removal hurt?
Most women feel only a brief pinch or cramp, similar to a Pap test. Uterine polyps are removed under sedation so you are comfortable.
Can I fly after polypectomy?
After cervical polypectomy there is usually no restriction. After hysteroscopic removal most women can fly 1–2 days later; share your travel dates when booking.
OB-GYN Specialist · Ph.D. · Medical Director
Former Professor of OB-GYN, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine · Former editorial board member, AAGL · 11th President, Korean Society of Aesthetic Gynecology
Last reviewed: . This page is for general information and does not replace an in-person consultation.
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