Polyps are abnormal tissue growths that form on the inner lining of organs, such as the colon, stomach, uterus, or nasal passages. They often appear as soft, teardrop-shaped swellings that hang down, resembling small grapes.

While most polyps are harmless and painless, they may cause issues if they grow in size or cluster together. Although typically benign (non-cancerous), certain types of polyps can carry a risk of becoming cancerous over time.

The exact causes of polyps aren’t known, but several factors are believed to contribute to their development. These include genetics, inflammation, age, and certain lifestyle choices.

Depending on the location of the polyp, you may not have any symptoms and most polyps are discovered during a procedure for another condition. However, larger polyps may cause the following symptoms.

Colon polyp symptoms include:

• Changes in bowel habit
• Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
• Abdominal pain or cramping

Stomach polyp symptoms include:

• Abdominal discomfort
• Nausea or vomiting
• Bloating
• Blood in the stool

Uterus polyp symptoms include:

• Irregular or heavy menstrual bleeding
• Bleeding between menstrual cycles
• Pelvic pain or discomfort

You can find out more about the symptoms of nasal polyps on the nasal polypectomy treatment page.

The diagnosis of polyps typically begins with your GP discussing your symptoms and medical history. Depending on the location of the suspected polyps, you may be referred for further diagnostic tests.

These tests can include:

• Endoscopy: A procedure where a small camera, attached to a thin, flexible tube, is inserted to examine the affected area
• CT Scan: An imaging test that provides detailed cross-sectional images of your body to help identify polyps

Treatment options for polyps depend on their size, location, type, and whether they carry any risk of becoming cancerous. Common treatments include:

• Polypectomy: A minimally invasive procedure to remove polyps, often done during an endoscopy
• Surgical removal: Larger or inaccessible polyps may require surgery
• Medications: Hormonal treatments may be used for certain types of polyps, like uterine polyps, to manage symptoms or reduce their size
• Monitoring: Small, non-cancerous polyps without symptoms may simply be monitored over time with regular check-ups

A nasal polypectomy is an ear, nose and throat (ENT) operation to remove nasal polyps from the nose or sinuses, usually under general anaesthetic.

Polypectomy surgery is usually carried out under general anaesthetic, so you’ll be asleep during the operation.

During the procedure, your surgeon will use an endoscope (a slender tube with a video camera at one end) to access the area. A specialised tool called a microdebrider (a tiny rotary vacuum shaver) is then used to remove the polyps.

In most cases you’ll be able to return home on the same day as the procedure. Before leaving the hospital, your healthcare team will go over follow-up appointments and provide guidance on any medications prescribed.

It’s important to rest and take it easy for the next couple of weeks following the surgery. If you’ve been prescribed medication, make sure to follow your surgeon’s instructions and complete the course as advised.