What should you know about a small amount of bleeding after sex?

Friction, vaginal dryness, a small surface tear, or a sensitive cervix can cause light spotting after intercourse. Infections such as [Chlamydia](/conditions/chlamydia/) may also cause bleeding, sometimes with discharge, pelvic discomfort, or pain during sex. After menopause, thinner and drier vaginal tissues linked with [Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause](/conditions/genitourinary-syndrome-of-menopause/) can bleed more easily.

Bleeding after sex is often not caused by cancer, but it should not be self-diagnosed. Cervical changes such as [Cervical Dysplasia](/conditions/cervical-dysplasia/) and, less commonly, [Cervical Cancer](/conditions/cervical-cancer/) or [Vaginal Cancer](/conditions/vaginal-cancer/) need clinical assessment when bleeding persists or has no clear explanation.

Note when the bleeding occurs, how long it lasts, and whether pain, discharge, dryness, or bleeding between periods accompanies it. Arrange a gynaecology or primary-care appointment if it recurs, occurs after menopause, or has not been explained. A clinician may discuss an examination, infection testing, cervical screening history, or further investigation.

Seek urgent help for bleeding that is heavy or increasing, severe pelvic or abdominal pain, fainting, dizziness, fever, or possible pregnancy with pain or bleeding. Prompt assessment is also appropriate for bleeding after menopause, even if the amount is small.

Ask whether dryness, irritation, infection, or a cervical condition could explain the bleeding; which tests are appropriate; and whether a [Cone Biopsy](/treatments/gynaecological-surgery/cone-biopsy/) is relevant to any abnormal cervical findings.