Getting your period after sex

Sex does not normally trigger a true menstrual period. If bleeding arrives when expected and follows your usual pattern, it may simply coincide with intercourse. Blood noticed soon after sex may instead be from a small vaginal or cervical irritation, especially if there was dryness or friction. Bleeding between periods can also be linked with hormonal contraception, infection, polyps or changes around perimenopause. Pregnancy is possible if sperm could have entered the vagina, even when bleeding is mistaken for a period.

Note the date, amount, colour, duration and whether bleeding followed penetration. Use a pregnancy test at the appropriate time if pregnancy is possible, and arrange sexual health testing if there is unusual discharge, pelvic pain, burning or a new exposure. Gentle lubrication may reduce friction-related spotting. Do not douche or insert products to stop bleeding. A clinician can examine the vagina and cervix and review contraception, medicines and cycle changes.

Book an appointment for repeated bleeding after sex, bleeding between periods, bleeding after menopause, or any change that does not settle. Seek urgent care for severe or one-sided pelvic pain, fainting, shoulder-tip pain, or heavy bleeding with weakness, particularly if pregnancy is possible. Fever or worsening pain also needs prompt assessment because infection may require treatment.

Could this be a period or post-sex spotting? Do I need a pregnancy test, infection testing or a cervical examination? Could my contraception or vaginal dryness be contributing? What pattern should I record before follow-up?