Red discharge after sex: what to know

Friction can irritate vaginal or cervical tissue, particularly when hormonal changes have made the vagina dry or delicate. Infection, inflammation, a cervical growth, or pelvic organ prolapse can also cause spotting or discharge. Colour alone cannot identify the cause.

Note the amount, smell, timing, pain, and whether it happens again. Bleeding after menopause should be checked even when light or isolated, because examination is needed to distinguish surface irritation from changes in the vagina, cervix, or womb.

Record when it began and whether you have itching, odour, pelvic pain, fever, or urinary symptoms. Pause penetrative sex if it causes bleeding or pain, and avoid scented washes or douching. Arrange review if bleeding recurs, you are pregnant, or your periods have stopped.

A clinician may ask about contraception, medicines, menopause symptoms, and infection risk, then examine the vagina and cervix. Testing may include swabs. Do not use leftover antibiotics or vaginal products.

Seek urgent care for heavy bleeding, severe or one-sided pelvic pain, faintness, shoulder-tip pain, fever with feeling very unwell, or possible pregnancy with pain or bleeding. Book a prompt appointment for repeated bleeding, foul-smelling discharge, or painful sex.

Ask whether dryness, infection, a cervical change, or prolapse could explain the discharge, whether you need swabs, and which lubricant or treatment is suitable. Mention any bleeding after menopause clearly.