What are the first signs of endometrial polyps?

Endometrial polyps are growths from the lining of the womb. They may disturb the lining and cause spotting between expected periods, bleeding after sex, or a period that is heavier or lasts longer than usual. The bleeding pattern can be occasional rather than present every cycle. Some polyps are found during an examination or scan when a person has no bleeding symptoms.

These symptoms have several possible causes, including hormonal changes, fibroids, infection, or changes in the cervix. Bleeding does not by itself identify the cause, so an assessment is useful, particularly after menopause.

Keep a simple record of when bleeding occurs, how long it lasts, whether it follows sex, and whether your flow is heavier than your usual pattern. Arrange a gynaecology appointment if the change persists, returns, or affects daily activities. The clinician may discuss an examination, ultrasound, or diagnostic hysteroscopy, which allows the inside of the womb to be viewed. If a polyp is causing symptoms, hysteroscopic polypectomy may be considered.

Seek prompt medical advice for bleeding after menopause, repeated bleeding between periods, or bleeding after sex. Get urgent help if bleeding is very heavy, you feel faint or unusually weak, or you have severe pelvic pain, fever, or possible pregnancy. These warning signs need assessment even when a polyp is a possible explanation.

You could ask: What might explain my bleeding pattern? Do I need an ultrasound or diagnostic hysteroscopy? If a polyp is found, would monitoring or removal suit me? What symptoms should prompt urgent review?