Uterine Polyps During Pregnancy: Symptoms and Concerns

Endometrial polyps during pregnancy

Hello, Doctor.
I am currently 15 weeks pregnant.
At 10 weeks, I noticed some blood streaks in my discharge when wiping after urination, so I visited an obstetrician-gynecologist.
The doctor performed an ultrasound and a pelvic exam, stating that everything looked good.
The pelvic exam was cautious due to concerns about irritation, and the doctor mentioned there were no polyps.
I was advised not to worry about occasional blood streaks unless I experienced abdominal pain or heavy bleeding.

At 10 weeks and 1 day, I went to a larger hospital for a check-up.
The doctor also performed an ultrasound and confirmed that everything looked fine.
However, since I informed the doctor about the previous examination findings, they decided to perform a more thorough pelvic exam to check the cervix.
This time, the doctor was able to examine more deeply and also confirmed there were no polyp issues.

At 11 weeks and 1 day, during a follow-up visit, I reported an increase in discharge (yellow-green with gray).
After the pelvic exam, the doctor identified a polyp and removed it for testing.
The subsequent results confirmed it was a uterine polyp.
At that time, the doctor prescribed a vaginal suppository and scheduled a follow-up visit at 12 weeks.
During that visit, the doctor performed another pelvic exam and noted inflammation of the cervix, prescribing another vaginal suppository.
The doctor reiterated that occasional blood streaks are not a concern unless accompanied by abdominal pain or heavy bleeding.
1.
I would like to ask if uterine polyps can generally be detected through abdominal ultrasound? The previous ultrasounds indicated no issues, so how could a polyp suddenly appear with the biopsy results confirming it as a uterine polyp?
2.
What impact can uterine polyps have during pregnancy? Could they lead to bleeding or other complications?
3.
Are there any methods to help improve cervical inflammation? I do not have pain or odor, but sometimes I experience increased discharge (yellow-green).
Thank you for your response, Doctor!

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/12/26

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, cervical polyps are generally not detectable through ultrasound and can only be identified through a pelvic examination.
Increased discharge may be a sign of a Candida infection, which can be treated.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/12/26

More Info

During pregnancy, the presence of uterine polyps can raise several concerns, especially when it comes to symptoms and potential impacts on both the mother and the developing fetus. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Detection of Uterine Polyps via Ultrasound: Uterine polyps can sometimes be difficult to detect through a standard abdominal ultrasound, particularly in early pregnancy. While transvaginal ultrasound is more sensitive and can provide a clearer view of the uterus, polyps may still be missed if they are small or if the imaging is not optimal. It's not uncommon for a healthcare provider to initially report no issues, only for a subsequent examination to reveal the presence of polyps. The growth of polyps can also be influenced by hormonal changes during pregnancy, which may lead to their development or growth after earlier scans.

2. Impact of Uterine Polyps During Pregnancy: Generally, uterine polyps are benign growths and do not typically cause complications during pregnancy. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. While most women with uterine polyps have healthy pregnancies, there is a potential for polyps to cause irregular bleeding, especially if they are located near the cervix. In your case, the occasional blood-streaked discharge you experienced could be related to the presence of the polyp, but it is reassuring that your healthcare providers have indicated that this is not uncommon and not necessarily a cause for alarm unless accompanied by significant pain or heavy bleeding.
3. Management of Cervical Inflammation: Cervical inflammation, or cervicitis, can occur for various reasons, including infections or irritation. Since you mentioned that the inflammation is asymptomatic (not causing pain, itching, or unusual odor), it may not require aggressive treatment. However, maintaining good hygiene, avoiding irritants (such as douches or harsh soaps), and following up with your healthcare provider for any necessary treatments or monitoring are advisable. If the discharge becomes bothersome or if you experience any new symptoms, it would be prudent to consult your doctor for further evaluation.

In summary, while the presence of uterine polyps and cervical inflammation during pregnancy can be concerning, they are often manageable and do not necessarily indicate a serious risk to your pregnancy. Regular monitoring and open communication with your healthcare provider are key. If you experience any significant changes, such as increased bleeding or pain, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. Always remember that each pregnancy is unique, and your healthcare provider is the best resource for personalized advice and care.

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