Endometrial polyps:
What they are and what you can do about them
Is this normal?
Spotting between periods? Bleeding after sex? Heavier or longer periods than usual? If your cycle feels off and you’re not sure why, one possible cause could be an endometrial polyp.
Endometrial polyps are common, especially in women over 35 or during perimenopause. Most are not dangerous, but they can cause disruptive symptoms—and in some cases, affect fertility.
Let’s talk about what polyps are, how they’re different from other conditions like fibroids and ovarian cysts, and what can be done if one is found.
Understanding
What is an endometrial polyp?
An endometrial polyp is a soft, overgrowth of tissue that develops in the lining of the uterus (the endometrium). You can think of it like a skin tag, but inside the uterus.
They vary in size—from just a few millimetres to a few centimetres—and you may have one or several.
Most endometrial polyps are non-cancerous, but they can still cause problems depending on their size and location. In some cases (especially after menopause), further testing may be needed to rule out abnormal or precancerous cells.
What causes polyps?
The exact cause isn’t always clear, but they seem to be linked to oestrogen, which can stimulate the uterine lining to grow. This is why polyps are more common in people who are:
- In their late 30s, 40s or 50s
- Going through perimenopause or menopause
- Using certain medications like tamoxifen
- Living with hormone-related conditions like PCOS
- Carrying excess weight, which can increase oestrogen levels
Endometrial polyps symptoms
What do polyps feel like?
Not everyone with a polyp has symptoms—many are discovered during investigations for other issues, like irregular bleeding or fertility concerns.
When symptoms are present, they can be very similar to those of fibroids or ovarian cysts, which is why diagnosis matters.
Common symptoms may include:
- Spotting or bleeding between periods
- Heavier or longer periods
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Bleeding after sex
- Bleeding after menopause
- Difficulty falling pregnant or recurrent miscarriage
Because symptoms overlap with other conditions, it’s not always possible to know it’s a polyp without further investigation.
How are endometrial polyps diagnosed?
If your GP suspects a polyp, they may start with a pelvic ultrasound. However, a standard ultrasound isn’t always detailed enough to pick up smaller or hidden polyps.
That’s where a saline infusion sonohysterogram (SIS) or a hysteroscopy can be helpful.
Diagnostic tools include:
Pelvic ultrasound
May show a thickened lining or possible polyp
Saline infusion sonohysterogram (SIS)
A more detailed ultrasound where fluid is gently inserted into the uterus to help outline the polyp
Hysteroscopy
A thin camera is passed through the cervix to look directly into the uterus. If a polyp is found, it can often be removed during the same procedure.
Endometrial biopsy
May be recommended if there is postmenopausal bleeding or other concerns
How is it different from a fibroid or ovarian cyst?
If the septum is found and thought to be affecting fertility or pregnancy outcomes, your doctor may recommend a hysteroscopic septum resection. This is a straightforward procedure to remove or reduce the septum.
- Polyps grow inside the uterine lining
- Fibroids grow within the uterine muscle or just under its surface
- Ovarian cysts grow on or inside the ovaries
Even though they can feel similar, the location and type of tissue involved are different—and so is the treatment.
Do polyps always need treatment?
Not always. If the polyp is small and not causing symptoms, it may be monitored over time. But treatment is usually recommended if:
- You’re experiencing abnormal bleeding
- You’re trying to conceive
- The polyp is large or growing
- You’ve reached menopause
- There's concern about the polyp’s appearance
Endometrial polyps treatment
How are endometrial polyps treated?
Most endometrial polyps can be removed with a quick procedure done through the vagina—no surgery, no stitches. It’s called a hysteroscopic polypectomy, and most people recover well afterwards.
Hysteroscopic removal:
The standard treatment for most symptomatic polyps
Monitoring:
In cases where the polyp is small and not causing problems
Hormonal medication:
Occasionally used to help reduce recurrence
Follow-up imaging:
To check for regrowth if symptoms return
If you’re considering removal, we’ll talk through your symptoms, life stage, and goals—whether that’s fertility, symptom relief, or peace of mind.
What people are saying
Here are some anonymous reflections from people who’ve dealt with endometrial polyps:
- “I noticed my periods were getting longer and heavier, but I didn’t realise there might be a reason behind it.”
- “I was spotting between periods and didn't think much of it—until I mentioned it at a routine check-up.”
- “It was picked up during fertility testing. I had no idea anything was there.”
When should you get checked?
If you notice changes in your cycle or bleeding that doesn’t feel normal, it’s worth speaking with your GP. You might benefit from further assessment if you experience:
- Spotting between periods
- Bleeding after sex
- Heavy or prolonged periods
- Irregular cycles
- Bleeding after menopause
- Difficulty falling pregnant
Your GP might organise an ultrasound or refer you on, depending on what’s going on.
What now?
If you’ve been told you have a polyp—or suspect something might not be right—here’s what you can do next:
- Track your bleeding: Write down when it happens, how heavy it is, and whether it seems connected to your cycle.
- Talk to your GP Let them know about any unusual bleeding or fertility concerns.
- Learn your options: Understanding the difference between a cyst, fibroid and polyp can help you feel more confident and informed.
- Reach out: If you’d like to discuss your options further, I’m here to help you make a plan that feels right for you.
Endometrial polyp Perth
Let’s take the guesswork out of bleeding
Unexpected bleeding doesn’t always mean something serious—but it does deserve to be taken seriously. Whether it’s a polyp or something else, getting the right diagnosis is the first step toward peace of mind.
- Follow me on Instagram for educational content and women’s health conversations
- Book a consultation if you’d like to talk things through
- Download a symptom tracker to bring along to your GP or specialist appointment. As a founder of Charli.health, I’ve worked on a symptom tracker designed to help you log your cycle and symptoms. It’s a simple tool you can use to support conversations with your healthcare team.