A urethral polyp is a small benign growth in the urethra that often does not cause noticeable symptoms at the early stages. At the same time, the absence of complaints does not always indicate a harmless course. The polyp may gradually increase in size, disrupt normal urine flow, and create conditions for the development of inflammation. In this article, we will consider how to distinguish a polyp from other conditions, when removal is appropriate, and what is important to know before making a treatment decision.
Do you need to remove a urethral polyp and when
The decision to remove a urethral polyp is made not only based on the presence of symptoms. In clinical practice, such growths are considered a potential source of further disorders, even if the patient has no complaints at the time of examination. Polyps do not resolve on their own and do not respond to medication, so the options for observation are limited.
Planned surgical treatment is usually recommended for the following reasons:
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the polyp may gradually increase in size and be injured during urination, leading to bleeding;
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the presence of the growth creates conditions for the development of inflammation in the urethra;
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obstruction of the urethra with impaired urine outflow is possible;
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long-term existence of a polyp complicates differentiation from other pathological conditions;
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oncological vigilance remains, which requires morphological verification of the tissues.
Special attention is paid to patients in whom a urethral polyp is combined with chronic inflammatory processes or viral infections, in particular HPV in women, which may affect the condition of the mucous membrane. In such situations, a watchful waiting approach does not allow full control of the process. That is why in most cases doctors recommend timely removal of the polyp.
How fast does a urethral polyp grow in women and men
The growth rate of a urethral polyp can vary significantly depending on individual characteristics of the body, concomitant diseases, and the condition of the urethral mucosa. In most cases, it is a slow process that lasts for months or even years, which is why changes may remain unnoticed for a long time.
In women, urethral polyps are more often detected at early stages. This is due to anatomical features—a shorter and wider urethra—as well as the fact that the growth begins to cause discomfort during urination or a sensation of a foreign body sooner.
In men, the situation is different. Due to the greater length of the urethra, the growth may not cause pronounced symptoms for a long time and is detected only at the stage when urine outflow disorders or bloody discharge appear.
It is important to understand that the rate of size increase is not the only assessment criterion. Even a small polyp may cause mucosal injury, maintain chronic inflammation, or complicate urination. Therefore, the course of the process and the appropriateness of treatment should be assessed by a physician based on diagnostic results. Relying on subjective sensations or the growth rate of the lesion is a risky strategy.
How to distinguish a urethral polyp from prolapse
A urethral polyp is a growth that forms from the mucous membrane and has well-defined borders. It usually has a round or oval shape, may protrude into the urethral lumen, and is easily injured during urination, which is often accompanied by bleeding.
Urethral prolapse, unlike a polyp, is not a tumor process. It is a condition in which the urethral mucosa turns outward, most often due to age-related changes, decreased tissue tone, or after childbirth. In this case, a uniform protrusion of the mucosa is observed without a clearly defined mass.
It is almost impossible to distinguish these conditions on your own. Even during an external examination without special equipment, it is difficult to accurately determine the nature of the changes. A definitive conclusion can be made only by a doctor after an examination and, if necessary, additional tests. Proper diagnosis makes it possible to choose the optimal treatment strategy and avoid both unjustified procedures and delays in necessary treatment.
How urethral polyps are removed in women and men
Removal of a urethral polyp is performed surgically, since conservative methods do not eliminate the growth itself. The intervention strategy depends on the size of the polyp, its location, anatomical features of the urethra, and the results of the preliminary examination.
Most often, an endoscopic method is used. The operation is performed through the urethra without external incisions: the doctor inserts a thin instrument with optics, which allows good visualization of the growth and its precise removal. This approach is minimally traumatic and allows maximum preservation of healthy tissues. It should be noted that this method is not used in all clinics, but only where there is a surgical department equipped for endoscopic procedures.
In women, the procedure is usually technically simpler. A shorter and wider urethra provides convenient access to the pathological area, so removal of the polyp often takes minimal time and is accompanied by rapid recovery. In most cases, the intervention is performed on an outpatient basis.
In men, the operation is also performed endoscopically, but requires a more careful approach due to the greater length of the urethra and its anatomical curves. The doctor step by step controls the course of the intervention to avoid injury to the mucous membrane and ensure complete removal of the growth.
After excision, the polyp is обязательно sent for histological examination. This is an important stage that allows confirmation of the benign nature of the growth and exclusion of other pathological changes.
The recovery period after the intervention is usually short. In the first days, slight discomfort or burning during urination may be observed, which gradually subsides. Further recommendations depend on the individual characteristics of the patient and are determined by the doctor after the procedure.
Is it painful to remove a urethral polyp
During polyp removal, anesthesia is обязательно used, which makes it possible to perform the procedure without pronounced pain. Most often, local anesthesia is used—a medication is introduced into the urethra to reduce the sensitivity of the mucous membrane. As a result, during the procedure the patient may feel only slight pressure or discomfort, but not pain.
In some cases, if the polyp is large or the intervention requires more time, the procedure may be performed under sedation. In this situation, the patient is in a state of medication-induced sleep and does not experience any unpleasant sensations.
After surgery, minor unpleasant sensations such as burning or moderate discomfort during urination are possible. This is a normal reaction of the mucous membrane to the intervention and resolves within a few days as the tissues heal. Pronounced pain or prolonged deterioration of well-being is rare and requires additional consultation with a doctor.
Overall, removal of a urethral polyp is considered a minimally traumatic procedure. With proper anesthesia and adherence to post-procedure recommendations, most patients tolerate the treatment calmly and return to their usual rhythm of life within a short time.
The information in the article is provided for informational purposes only and is not a guide to self-diagnosis and treatment. If you experience symptoms of the disease, you should consult a doctor.
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