What can cause spotting after sex?

This is called postcoital bleeding. It is often light, but the amount cannot reveal the cause. New or repeated bleeding should be checked even when it stops quickly or sex was not painful.

Dry or delicate vaginal tissue can split with friction, especially around menopause, during breastfeeding or when arousal and lubrication are limited. Inflammation from chlamydia or another infection may make the cervix bleed on contact. A cervical ectropion exposes delicate glandular cells and can also bleed when touched.

Polyps may arise from the cervix or uterine lining and can present with contact bleeding. Cervical cancer can present with bleeding after sex, while cervical dysplasia may be found during investigation or screening. The symptom does not show which explanation applies, so an examination matters.

Arrange an appointment with a gynaecology, primary care or sexual health clinician. Until then, note whether bleeding happens every time, its amount, pain, dryness, discharge, odour and the timing of your last period. Mention new partners and contraception so relevant testing can be offered.

If dryness or friction seems likely, pausing penetrative sex until soreness settles can avoid further irritation. A water-based lubricant may reduce friction later, but recurrent bleeding still needs evaluation. The visit may involve pregnancy and infection tests plus a consented examination of the vagina and cervix.

Seek urgent care if pregnancy is possible and bleeding occurs with abdominal, pelvic or shoulder-tip pain. Heavy bleeding, fainting, marked dizziness, severe pain, fever or feeling suddenly very unwell also require urgent assessment.

Prompt clinical review is warranted for any bleeding after menopause, persistent bleeding, an unusual vaginal discharge or a pelvic lump. These features do not diagnose a specific condition; they indicate that examination should not be postponed.

Ask where the bleeding appears to originate, whether infection testing or cervical screening is due, and whether a closer cervical examination or ultrasound is needed. Confirm how and when results will arrive and what should prompt an earlier return.