What is the most common benign neoplasm of the cervix?

The most common benign neoplasm of the cervix is a cervical polyp. These growths are typically small, soft, and often asymptomatic, although some women may experience abnormal bleeding or discharge. Cervical polyps arise from the cervical canal and can vary in size, with some being only a few millimeters long, while others can grow significantly larger.

Cervical polyps are prevalent particularly among women who have had multiple pregnancies or have reached middle age, which contributes to their frequency as a benign cervical neoplasm. They are generally identified during pelvic exams and can often be removed easily in an outpatient setting if they cause symptoms or are suspected to be problematic.

Understanding the nature of cervical polyps is essential, as they are generally not associated with cancer but rather are a common incidental finding during gynecological evaluations. This contrasts with conditions such as fibroids (leiomyomas), which are more common in the uterus rather than the cervix, and they manifest differently, often causing more pronounced symptoms. Cervical cancer, on the other hand, is not a benign tumor and involves malignant cell growth; thus, it is not categorized in the same group as the benign neoplasms.