What should you know about brown bleeding after sex?

Brown discharge usually contains older blood. Sex can irritate a dry or sensitive vaginal surface, or the cervix may bleed more easily because of inflammation or a benign surface change. Bleeding after sex is also associated with infections such as [Chlamydia](/conditions/chlamydia/) and cervical changes such as [Cervical Dysplasia](/conditions/cervical-dysplasia/).

After menopause, thinning and dryness related to [Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause](/conditions/genitourinary-syndrome-of-menopause/) can contribute. Less commonly, bleeding after sex can be a presentation of [Cervical Cancer](/conditions/cervical-cancer/) or [Vaginal Cancer](/conditions/vaginal-cancer/). Most causes are not cancer, and the symptom itself cannot identify the cause.

Arrange a medical appointment if the bleeding happens again, follows sex consistently, occurs after menopause, or comes with pain, unusual discharge, itching or a new sexual partner. Note the colour, amount, timing, pain and any contraception or pregnancy possibility.

A clinician may ask about your periods and sexual health, examine the vagina and cervix, and offer infection testing or a cervical screening review. If a cervical area needs closer assessment, a [Cone Biopsy](/treatments/gynaecological-surgery/cone-biopsy/) may be discussed; it is not needed for every episode.

Seek urgent care for heavy or rapidly worsening bleeding, severe pelvic or abdominal pain, faintness, weakness, fever or feeling very unwell. If pregnancy is possible, bleeding with one-sided pain, dizziness or collapse requires emergency assessment.

Ask whether dryness, infection or a cervical change could explain the bleeding; whether you need tests or an examination; and how to reduce irritation while the cause is being assessed.