Spotting after sex following your period

A small amount of blood can follow friction, dryness, or a sensitive cervix. Hormonal contraception, ovulation, pregnancy, and an infection can also change bleeding patterns. Chlamydia and other infections may cause discharge, pelvic pain, pain during sex, or bleeding after sex. Cervical dysplasia, polyps, fibroids, and, less commonly, cancer can also present with bleeding after sex; the symptom does not by itself identify the cause.

Note when the spotting began, how long it lasted, its colour, the amount, and whether sex was painful. Consider a pregnancy test if pregnancy is possible. Avoid inserting anything into the vagina until bleeding settles if this is uncomfortable, and use lubrication next time if dryness may have contributed. Arrange a medical review if it happens again, follows most episodes of sex, or occurs with discharge, pelvic pain, or a change in your usual cycle. A clinician may offer an examination, infection testing, pregnancy testing, or cervical screening based on your history.

Seek urgent care for heavy bleeding, severe or one-sided pelvic pain, fainting, marked dizziness, fever, or bleeding during a possible pregnancy. Prompt assessment is also needed for bleeding after sex that persists or is accompanied by pain or unusual discharge. Do not wait for a routine appointment if you feel very unwell.

Could dryness, contraception, pregnancy, or an infection explain this? Do I need testing for Chlamydia or another infection? Is my cervical screening up to date? What symptoms should make me seek urgent help? If the bleeding recurs, what examination or scan might be useful?