Bleeding after sex during pregnancy

Pregnancy increases blood flow to the cervix, and contact during sex may make delicate surface tissue bleed. Cervical ectropion, a polyp, vaginal irritation, or an infection can also cause spotting after contact.

The timing after sex does not prove that sex caused the bleeding. Pregnancy-related causes may happen coincidentally and need consideration. Cervical cancer can present with bleeding after sex, but this symptom alone does not establish that diagnosis.

Use a pad rather than a tampon so you can observe the amount and colour. Note whether bleeding is increasing and whether there is pain, fluid leakage, dizziness, fever, unusual discharge, contractions, or a change in your baby's usual movements. Contact your maternity unit or obstetric clinician for advice even if the bleeding stops.

Avoid further penetrative sex until you have received guidance, particularly if bleeding continues or a clinician has already advised pelvic rest. Your assessment may include questions about pregnancy stage and blood group, a check of your observations, examination, or pregnancy monitoring according to the symptoms.

Seek urgent assessment now if bleeding is heavy or increasing, you pass clots, or you have severe abdominal pain, one-sided pain, shoulder-tip pain, faintness, dizziness, contractions, fluid leakage, fever, or reduced fetal movement when movements are normally felt. Call emergency services if you collapse, feel too weak to stand, or have severe pain.

Ask what they think caused the bleeding, whether you need an examination or monitoring, whether your blood group affects management, what changes should bring you back immediately, and when penetrative sex can resume.