Bright red spotting after sex

Friction, dryness, inflammation, infection, or a cervical polyp can make tissue bleed on contact. The amount and colour cannot identify the source without considering the wider pattern.

Tiny tears around the vaginal opening may follow dryness or vigorous penetration. The cervix can bleed when it is inflamed, infected, or has delicate tissue or a polyp. Chlamydia may present with bleeding after sex, pelvic discomfort, or altered discharge, although it can also cause no symptoms.

Cervical dysplasia and cervical cancer can present with postcoital bleeding, which is why repeated or unexplained episodes should be examined. That presentation does not determine the diagnosis; many non-cancerous conditions cause the same symptom.

Pause penetration if tissue feels sore or continues to bleed. When sex is comfortable again, allow more arousal and consider a compatible lubricant to reduce friction. Note whether bleeding happens every time, follows a particular activity, or comes with pain or discharge.

Arrange an appointment if the cause is unclear, the episode returns, or you may have been exposed to a sexually transmitted infection. A clinician can inspect the vagina and cervix, take infection swabs or urine samples, and check whether cervical screening is due.

Get urgent help if bleeding is heavy, you feel faint or markedly dizzy, or you have severe abdominal or pelvic pain. If pregnancy is possible and bleeding occurs with one-sided pain, shoulder-tip pain, or weakness, seek emergency assessment.

Prompt care is also appropriate for fever, worsening pelvic pain, unpleasant-smelling discharge, or bleeding after sexual assault. After menopause, any vaginal bleeding warrants a timely medical assessment even when it stops.

Ask whether the examination found a vaginal or cervical source, which infection tests are suitable, and whether you need cervical screening or another investigation. Mention contraception, pregnancy possibility, new partners, dryness, pain during sex, and the date of your last period.