What can cause bleeding after sex?

The amount, recurrence and accompanying symptoms help a clinician decide whether you need an examination, infection testing or cervical assessment.

Small surface tears can occur when vaginal tissue is dry or sex involves substantial friction. Dryness may be more noticeable around menopause, during breastfeeding or with medicines that affect lubrication.

Inflammation of the vagina or cervix can make tissue bleed on contact. Chlamydia is one possible infection, particularly when there is unusual discharge, pelvic discomfort or pain when urinating, although it may cause no other symptoms.

Cervical polyps and changes in exposed cervical cells can also bleed when touched. Cervical dysplasia, cervical cancer and vaginal cancer can present with bleeding after sex, but the symptom alone cannot identify the cause.

Note whether the blood is bright red, pink or brown, how much there is, and whether it happens again. Record its relationship to your period and any dryness, discharge, odour, pain or urinary symptoms.

Pause penetration until active bleeding and soreness settle. A water-based lubricant may reduce friction, but recurrent bleeding still deserves assessment rather than repeated self-treatment.

Arrange a clinic visit if bleeding recurs, occurs after menopause or has no clear explanation. Depending on your history, assessment may include a pregnancy test, infection swabs, a speculum examination and review of cervical screening.

Seek urgent care for heavy or ongoing bleeding, fainting, marked dizziness, severe pelvic or abdominal pain, fever, or bleeding with a possible pregnancy. These features need timely assessment regardless of the suspected cause.

Contact a clinician promptly for bleeding after menopause, repeated bleeding after sex, a new pelvic mass, persistent unusual discharge or worsening pain.

Ask whether the cervix and vaginal walls need examination, whether infection testing is appropriate, and whether your cervical screening is current. Also mention hormonal medicines, contraception, pregnancy possibility and any recent procedure.