Spotting after sex: causes and next steps

Small amounts of blood after penetration may follow friction, dryness, or a delicate area on the cervix. Infections such as [Chlamydia](/conditions/chlamydia/) can cause bleeding with discharge, pelvic discomfort, or pain during sex. Cervical ectropion, polyps, hormonal changes, and vaginal tissue changes can also contribute. Less commonly, bleeding is associated with [Cervical Dysplasia](/conditions/cervical-dysplasia/) or [Cervical Cancer](/conditions/cervical-cancer/). The bleeding symptom does not establish which condition is present; an examination is needed.

Note when the bleeding occurs, its amount and colour, pain, discharge, contraception, pregnancy possibility, and whether it follows every episode of sex. Avoid products that irritate the vagina, and use lubrication if dryness seems relevant. Arrange a clinician or sexual-health appointment for repeated bleeding, bleeding after menopause, or bleeding with discharge or pelvic pain. Testing may include an examination, pregnancy test, infection swabs, or cervical screening according to your situation.

Seek urgent care for heavy or rapidly increasing bleeding, severe pelvic pain, fainting, marked dizziness, fever, or a positive pregnancy test with pain or bleeding. Prompt review is also needed if bleeding follows sexual assault or you feel unsafe. Do not wait for routine screening when bleeding is persistent or accompanied by concerning symptoms.

Ask what may be causing the bleeding, whether you need infection or pregnancy testing, when your cervical screening is due, and which symptoms should trigger urgent care.