Cervical Lesion Removal — In the Office, Often Without Anesthesia
Benign lesions on the cervix — most commonly cervical polyps and nabothian cysts — are among the most frequently encountered findings in gynecologic practice and among the easiest to treat. Cervical polyp removal is typically performed in the office in under five minutes, requires no anesthesia in most cases, and results in only minimal discomfort. Nabothian cysts — mucus-retention cysts on the cervical surface — are almost always observed rather than treated unless they are large, symptomatic, or have atypical features.
It is important to distinguish cervical lesion removal from LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure), which treats cervical dysplasia — precancerous cell changes identified on Pap smear and biopsy. LEEP is a surgical procedure performed in the operating room or office specifically for CIN (cervical intraepithelial neoplasia). Cervical polyp removal and other benign lesion treatment are distinct, simpler procedures that address structural growths rather than cellular dysplasia.
All tissue removed from the cervix is sent to pathology regardless of clinical appearance. Cervical polyps are benign in the vast majority of cases — but rare exceptions exist, and histologic confirmation is the standard of care.
Cervical Lesions Addressed In the Office
The following cervical findings are treated at Lapeer Women’s Health. Assessment of the lesion on examination determines whether in-office removal is appropriate.
Cervical polyps
The most common cervical lesion — a fleshy, pedunculated growth extending from the cervical canal or ectocervix. Usually asymptomatic but can cause intermenstrual or postcoital bleeding. Removed by twisting or snipping the stalk and sending to pathology.
Nabothian cysts (selected cases)
Mucus-retention cysts on the cervical surface that appear as smooth, pale, slightly raised bumps. Almost always benign and typically observed. Larger cysts or those with atypical features on examination may warrant treatment or biopsy.
Cervical condyloma
HPV-related warts on the ectocervix — treated by excision or ablation in the office. Cervical condyloma frequently coexist with vaginal and vulvar condyloma and are addressed in the context of full evaluation and treatment planning.
Ectropion causing significant symptoms
Cervical ectropion — columnar epithelium visible on the ectocervix — is a normal variant in most cases. When it causes significant discharge or bleeding, treatment options including office cautery may be discussed.
Mucus polyp at the cervical os
A small mucus polyp visible at or protruding from the external cervical os — removed quickly in the office with ring forceps or scissors. Pathology confirms benign endocervical tissue.
Cervical lesion of uncertain type requiring biopsy
Any cervical lesion with features that make its nature uncertain — irregular surface, abnormal vascularity, or clinical findings that differ from a simple polyp — is biopsied and sent to pathology before any definitive treatment is considered.
Cervical Polyp Removal and Other Cervical Procedures
Cervical polyp removal is the simplest and most common cervical in-office procedure. It typically takes five minutes and requires no anesthesia. Other cervical procedures are similarly brief.
Speculum Placement and Visualization
A speculum is placed to visualize the cervix directly. Dr. Andrei examines the lesion — assessing its appearance, stalk, and whether it is appropriate for immediate removal or requires biopsy first.
Removal (Usually Without Anesthesia)
For cervical polyps, Dr. Andrei grasps the polyp stalk with ring forceps and uses a twisting motion to detach it at the base — or snips it with scissors. Most women feel only mild pressure and brief cramping. No injection is required in the majority of cases.
Hemostasis
The base of the polyp is inspected for bleeding. In most cases, the site stops bleeding quickly without intervention. If needed, gentle cautery or silver nitrate application controls the bleeding site.
Pathology and Instructions
The removed specimen is sent to pathology. You receive brief discharge instructions. Results are available in one to two weeks. Most women return to normal activity immediately after the appointment.
Mild cramping and light spotting for one to two days are expected and normal. Avoid intercourse and tampons for one week. Normal daily activity is appropriate immediately. Call the office if you experience heavy bleeding or significant pain. Pathology results are reviewed with you within two weeks of the procedure.
Questions About Cervical Lesion Removal
Cervical Polyp or Lesion?
Five Minutes. Same Day. Pathology Confirmed.
Cervical polyp removal is one of the quickest procedures in gynecology — done in the office, typically without anesthesia, with all tissue sent to pathology. Schedule at either Lapeer or Rochester Hills.
Gynecologic care for women of every age
Lapeer Women’s Health — Rochester Hills
2710 S Rochester Rd, Suite 2
Rochester Hills, MI 48307
Serving patients in Lapeer, Rochester Hills, and surrounding communities throughout Southeast Michigan.