Bowel polyps: types, risks and how they are removed at colonoscopy

A bowel polyp is a growth on the lining of the colon or rectum. Most are non-cancerous, but some types can develop into bowel cancer over time. Polyps often cause no symptoms. The type of polyp, its size and the findings at colonoscopy help your specialist decide whether it needs removal and what follow-up is appropriate.

What is a bowel polyp?

You may hear the terms bowel polyp, colon polyp or colorectal polyp. They describe growths in the large bowel. Some are flat or slightly raised; others grow on a stalk.

A polyp’s appearance gives the specialist useful information. When tissue is removed, a laboratory examines it under a microscope. This pathology result helps identify the type and whether there are concerning cell changes.

Common types of bowel polyps

Type	What it means
Adenoma	A type that can develop into cancer over time. Not every adenoma will do so.
Sessile serrated lesion or traditional serrated adenoma	Types with potential to develop into cancer. Their features help determine follow-up.
Hyperplastic polyp	Usually a low-risk finding, particularly when small and in the lower bowel. The full report still matters.

The word precancerous means that a growth has the potential to become cancer. It does not mean that cancer has already developed.

Do bowel polyps cause symptoms?

Many polyps cause no symptoms and are found during a colonoscopy arranged for another reason. Some can cause bleeding or a change in bowel habit.

Symptoms cannot tell you whether a polyp is present. If you notice blood in your stool, have a persistent bowel change, unexplained weight loss or iron-deficiency anaemia, see your doctor. Do not assume bleeding is from a polyp or haemorrhoids, even if you have had either before. Age and family history also help your doctor assess the need for investigation.

Who is more likely to develop polyps?

Polyps become more common with age. Your personal history of polyps and family history of bowel polyps or cancer are also relevant. Some people have an inherited condition that needs a different testing and follow-up plan.

Tell your doctor which relatives have been affected and their age at diagnosis, if known. A previous colonoscopy or pathology report is useful when deciding your next step. Family history does not translate into one screening age that applies to everyone.

How are bowel polyps found?

A colonoscopy allows the specialist to examine the large bowel and often remove polyps during the same procedure. Good bowel preparation helps make the lining visible.

A bowel screening stool test looks for traces of blood. It does not show a polyp or determine its type. A positive result needs follow-up with your doctor, usually to arrange a colonoscopy. A negative screening test does not replace assessment of new or persistent symptoms.

How are polyps removed?

Removing a polyp is called a polypectomy. A small wire loop passed through the colonoscope is often used. The technique depends on the polyp’s size, shape, position and appearance.

Some polyps need a separate procedure or referral for more specialised removal. Your specialist will explain the options if a polyp cannot be safely removed during the first examination. Removed tissue is sent to pathology; the result helps guide further treatment or follow-up.

Polyp removal carries risks, including bleeding and perforation, which is a hole in the bowel wall. Your individual risk depends on the removal required and your health. These risks are discussed before the procedure.

Already been told that polyps were found? Read what happens if polyps are found during a colonoscopy for the next steps after the examination.

Understanding your results and follow-up

Your follow-up plan brings together the colonoscopy findings and the pathology result. Relevant details include how many polyps were found, their size and type, whether removal was complete and how clearly the bowel could be examined. Your medical and family history also matter.

Ask when and how you will receive the pathology result, whether another appointment is needed and who will arrange any follow-up colonoscopy. The timing should be documented for you and your GP. It may change when the pathology result becomes available.

When to seek advice

Arrange a review with your GP or specialist if you have a positive bowel screening test, new bowel symptoms, unexplained iron-deficiency anaemia, a relevant family history or an overdue follow-up recommendation. The most appropriate investigation depends on your circumstances.

After polyp removal, follow the discharge instructions provided. Seek urgent medical assessment for heavy or ongoing bleeding or severe or worsening abdominal pain.

Frequently asked questions

Are bowel polyps cancer?

Most are non-cancerous. Some types can develop into cancer, and a polyp can occasionally contain cancer when it is found. Pathology helps clarify the finding and the next step.

How many polyps is normal?

There is no single number that determines whether a result is reassuring or concerning. The number is considered alongside the polyp type, size and your history. Your specialist will explain what the combination means for you.

Does polyp removal hurt?

Polyps are often removed during a colonoscopy with sedation. The sedation plan and what you may experience are discussed beforehand. Ask your team about any concerns before the procedure.

How often will I need another colonoscopy?

Use the recommendation in your final report. Follow-up depends on the findings and your individual risk; a general online interval cannot replace that plan.

Can lifestyle changes remove a polyp?

Diet and exercise do not remove an existing polyp. Not smoking, being physically active and maintaining a healthy weight support bowel health, but do not replace recommended treatment or follow-up.

Discuss a finding or referral

For questions about an appointment with Colonoscopy Brisbane, call 07 3733 1551 or contact the team. Have your referral or previous colonoscopy and pathology reports available if you have them.