Heavy bleeding during intercourse

Heavy bleeding during intercourse may come from irritation or a small vaginal or cervical injury, but it can also reflect infection, tissue changes, or a problem in the cervix or vagina. Stop intercourse and arrange an assessment rather than trying to judge the cause from the amount alone.

A clinician may consider vaginal dryness related to genitourinary syndrome of menopause, cervical dysplasia, chlamydia, or less commonly a cancer of the cervix or vagina. These conditions can present with bleeding after sex; bleeding does not establish which condition is present. Previous cervical treatment, including a [Cone Biopsy](/treatments/gynaecological-surgery/cone-biopsy/), may also matter.

Avoid further penetration until bleeding has settled and you have advice. Record when it happened, the amount, pain, discharge, odour, fever, and whether pregnancy is possible. Arrange a sexual-health or gynaecology appointment, and mention any missed cervical screening or new partner so testing can be chosen appropriately.

Seek urgent care for bleeding that is heavy or persistent, severe pelvic pain, faintness, fever, weakness, or bleeding during pregnancy. Emergency assessment is also needed if you feel unwell after a significant bleed or cannot keep fluids down.

Ask whether you need an examination, pregnancy test, infection testing, or cervical screening; whether dryness or a recent procedure could explain the bleeding; and which symptoms should prompt emergency help.