When to worry about heavy periods with endometrial polyps

Endometrial polyps are growths arising from the womb lining. They can disturb the lining and cause heavier periods, spotting, or bleeding at unexpected times. Many are not cancerous, but symptoms alone cannot identify the type of growth. Persistent or changing bleeding therefore needs a clinician’s assessment, particularly after menopause.

Write down the timing and amount of bleeding, including spotting after sex and any clots. Arrange a review if periods are interfering with normal activities, if bleeding continues outside your period, or if you feel unusually tired. Your clinician may discuss an internal ultrasound or an examination that allows the polyp to be seen and, when appropriate, removed or tested.

Get urgent help if bleeding is heavy and you feel faint, very weak, confused, or short of breath. Seek prompt assessment for severe or worsening pelvic pain, fever with pelvic symptoms, or any bleeding after menopause. Tell the service if pregnancy could be possible.

Ask whether the polyp needs monitoring, removal, or laboratory testing, and what the procedure involves. Discuss how bleeding may affect iron levels and whether treatment should consider fertility or pregnancy plans.