Bleeding during sex: what should you know?

Light spotting can follow friction, dryness, or a small surface tear. Bleeding may also come from the cervix, including changes linked with infection, inflammation, contraception, or a cervical polyp. Bleeding after sex can sometimes occur during pregnancy and should be discussed promptly. It is not possible to identify the cause from the bleeding alone, and the symptom does not by itself mean cancer. A clinician may ask about your cycle, contraception, pregnancy possibility, discharge, pain, and screening history.

Pause penetrative sex until bleeding and pain have settled. Note when it happened, how much blood there was, and whether it followed dryness or injury. Use gentle lubrication in future if dryness is a factor, but do not use leftover medicines or insert products while symptoms continue. Arrange a GP or sexual-health appointment for new or repeated bleeding; testing may include a pregnancy test, examination, or infection checks depending on your history.

Get urgent help for heavy bleeding, severe or one-sided pelvic pain, faintness, shoulder-tip pain, fever, or feeling very unwell. If you might be pregnant, bleeding with pain or dizziness needs prompt assessment because an ectopic pregnancy must be considered. Seek care after a significant injury or if bleeding continues rather than settling.

Ask what areas need examination, whether pregnancy or infection testing is appropriate, and when routine cervical screening is due. Mention medicines, contraception, new partners, vaginal dryness, menopause, pain, discharge, and any previous episodes.