Cervical polyps | Right Decisions

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We are pleased to advise that deep linking capability, enabling users to directly download individual mobile toolkits, has now been released on the RDS mobile app. When you install the update, you will see that each toolkit has a small QR code icon the header area beside the search icon – see screenshot below. Clicking on this icon will open up a window with a full-size QR code and the alternative of a short URL for sharing with users. Instructions are provided.

You may need to actively install the update to install RDS app version 4.7.1 to see this improvement. Installing this update is also strongly recommended to get the full benefits of the new contingency arrangements – specifically, that if the RDS website should fail, you will still be able to download new mobile app toolkits.

To check your current RDS version, click on the three dots bottom right of the RDS app screen. This takes you to a “More” page where you will see the version number. To install latest updates:

On iPhones – go to the Apple store, click on your profile icon top right, scroll down to see the apps waiting to be updated and update the RDS app.

On Android phones – these can vary, but try going to the Google Play store, click on your profile icon top right, click on “Manage apps and device”, select and update the RDS app.

Please get in touch with ann.wales3@nhs.scot with any questions.

Cervical polyps are common benign lesions of the cervix, found in about 4% of the gynaecological population.

They may be endocervical or ectocervical:

Usually asymptomatic but may be associated with inflammatory smears, impaired smear quality, and abnormal vaginal bleeding
Rarely malignant (< 1 in 200)

Assessment

Most commonly found at the time of routine cervical smear-taking
Any abnormal bleeding needs to be investigated and managed to exclude other, more serious, causes

Management

It is recommended that polyps be removed. This is usually a simple process which can easily be performed in general practice.

>1.5 cm, arrange gynaecology referral
Most polyps, ranging in size between 1 cm and 1.5 cm, can simply be grasped using sponge forceps, then twisted repeatedly until the polyp separates from the cervix
Place the polyp in formalin and send for histological examination
Heavy bleeding is very uncommon following the procedure
Removal of the polyp is usually painless as polyps do not have a nerve supply
Advise patient to avoid tampons and vaginal intercourse for 2 days

Recurrent polyps

If recurrence occurs, the polyp can be managed in the same way, providing it has a similar appearance.