Bleeding After Sex
Another term for this is post-coital bleeding, and it usually occurs within 24 hours of intercourse. In most cases, it is nothing to worry about, but should be investigated if persistent or if you are concerned.
Possible causes
Common causes are cervical polyps and cervical ectropion. A polyp is a benign (not cancer) growth at the opening of the cervix. Ectropion is a raw area on the outside of the cervix that can become friable, or in other words fragile. An infection (such as chlamydia or gonorrhea) may also cause this.
An uncommon cause of post-coital bleeding is cervical cancer. Even if a recent cervical smear is normal, persistent postcoital bleeding should be investigated. A colposcopy may be indicated.
What to do
Please see your GP if you have persistent or concerning post-coital bleeding.
We can help
If you are experiencing bleeding after sex and would like to talk to us about how we can help, please feel free to contact us. You can also request an appointment online.
Related conditions
-
Cervical cancer forms in a woman’s cervix and is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which also causes genital warts.
-
An ectropion is when the inside of the cervix becomes everted on to the outside of the cervix, and can bleed with contact.
-
An infection – the multiplication of microorganisms not normally present within the body – can cause abnormal bleeding.
-
Polyps are benign growths and can occur in the uterus, cervix or vagina. They can cause irregular or unscheduled bleeding.
-
Prolapse occurs when the walls of the vagina lose support. This can cause the organs and spaces around the vagina to bulge downwards.
-
A speculum is placed in the vagina, and the cervix visualised using a colposcope. This provides a magnified view of the cervix so that a targeted biopsy can be taken.
Learn More
-
Ectropion is common, and treatment is generally not required.
-
An infection – the multiplication of microorganisms not normally present within the body – can cause abnormal bleeding.
-
A common procedure, placing a thin camera through the cervix to evaluate the inside of the uterus. This may be as an investigation or a treatment.