The cervix is the lower, narrow portion of the uterus that extends into the vagina, functioning as the gateway between the two organs. Discovering an unexpected bump or change in texture can cause concern. While the vast majority of cervical growths are benign and common, it is impossible to determine the nature of a bump through self-examination alone. A professional medical evaluation is necessary for accurate identification.
Common and Benign Explanations
The most frequent causes of a cervical bump involve non-threatening tissue changes, often related to hormonal shifts or healing processes. A common finding is a Nabothian cyst, which presents as a small, smooth, rounded lump on the cervical surface. These cysts form when skin cells block the mucus-producing glands beneath the surface, causing trapped mucus to accumulate. This creates a firm, pimple-like elevation that is typically white, yellow, or amber. Nabothian cysts are asymptomatic, not linked to cancer, and most do not require treatment.
Another frequent benign growth is a cervical polyp, a finger-like or bulbous growth originating from the cervical canal. These polyps are usually soft, smooth, reddish-pink to purple, and sometimes hang from a thin stalk. They are thought to develop due to chronic inflammation, an abnormal response to estrogen, or localized congestion of blood vessels. Although almost always benign, polyps can cause light bleeding after intercourse or between menstrual periods. A healthcare provider can easily remove them during a routine office procedure if they cause bleeding or require confirmation.
In some cases, a normal anatomical variation called cervical ectropion, or eversion, can feel like a texture change or bump. This occurs when the softer glandular cells from inside the cervical canal spread to the outer surface. This makes the area appear redder and sometimes bleed easily upon contact.
Bumps Caused by Infection
Infections can also be the source of cervical bumps, presenting as specific lesions that develop in response to a pathogen. Genital warts, caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV), are a common infectious cause. These growths appear as small, flesh-colored or whitish bumps, sometimes clustering to form a surface resembling a miniature cauliflower.
Another infectious cause is the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), which results in outbreaks of genital herpes lesions. Herpes typically begins as small, painful, fluid-filled blisters that are red or white. These blisters often appear in clusters and eventually burst, leading to open, shallow ulcers that crust over and heal. Although more frequently found on the external genitals, they can also affect the cervix, sometimes causing painful ulceration. Both genital warts and herpes lesions require specific testing for diagnosis and management.
Understanding Atypical or Serious Growths
While rare, a bump or mass can signify a more serious or atypical growth, making medical screening and evaluation important. Cervical dysplasia involves abnormal, precancerous cell changes on the surface, almost always caused by high-risk HPV. These changes are usually microscopic and often do not create a distinct, palpable bump, but rather an area of abnormal texture detected during a Pap smear. Dysplasia is classified by severity, and with timely detection and treatment, it is manageable before it progresses to cancer.
Cervical cancer is the least common cause of a cervical mass, especially for individuals who participate in regular screening programs. When present, a cancerous growth can appear as an abnormal, mass-like lesion that may be ulcerated, irregular, or bleed easily upon contact. Early-stage cervical cancer often has no noticeable symptoms, which emphasizes the importance of routine screening. The development from precancerous changes to invasive cancer is typically a slow process, often taking years.
A different, non-cancerous cause of a cervical mass is a leiomyoma, commonly known as a fibroid. While most fibroids grow within the uterus, a small percentage originate in the cervix. Cervical fibroids are benign smooth-muscle tumors that can occasionally grow large enough to protrude into the cervical canal or vagina, presenting as a palpable mass. Large cervical leiomyomas may cause symptoms such as abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, or difficulty with urination due to pressure.
Medical Evaluation and Next Steps
Any newly discovered bump or texture change requires a definitive evaluation by a healthcare professional to rule out serious possibilities. The diagnostic process begins with a pelvic exam, where the provider visually inspects the cervix using a speculum. A Pap smear is also performed to collect cells for analysis, checking for precancerous or cancerous changes often invisible to the naked eye.
If an abnormality is observed, the next step is often a colposcopy, which uses a magnifying instrument to examine the cervix in greater detail. During this procedure, the provider may apply a solution that highlights abnormal cells. A small tissue sample, known as a biopsy, may be taken for laboratory analysis, as it is the only way to confirm a diagnosis and distinguish between benign and serious conditions.
Immediate medical attention is warranted if the bump is accompanied by alarming symptoms, including:
- Heavy or irregular vaginal bleeding, especially bleeding after intercourse or between periods.
- Any bleeding after menopause.
- Severe pelvic pain.
- A persistent or foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
- Pain during sexual intercourse.
Only a medical professional can accurately identify the cause of a cervical bump and recommend the correct course of action.