Small spotting after intercourse: what to know

A small amount of blood may appear when vaginal tissue is dry or irritated, especially after vigorous sex or when there has not been enough lubrication. Bleeding can also come from the cervix, including changes such as cervical dysplasia, benign growths, or inflammation. Chlamydia and other infections may cause bleeding with discharge, burning, pelvic discomfort, or pain during sex. A cervical polyp or fibroid can sometimes contribute. A breast or pelvic symptom does not identify its cause by itself; cervical cancer is one possible cause of bleeding after sex, but many explanations are non-cancerous.

Keep track of when the spotting occurs, its colour, how long it lasts, whether it follows sex every time, and any discharge or pain. This helps a clinician decide whether an examination, infection testing, cervical screening review, or imaging is appropriate.

Pause penetrative sex if it triggers more bleeding or pain. Use a pad rather than an internal product while you observe the amount, and avoid douching or scented washes. Arrange a routine appointment if the spotting returns, happens without an obvious source, or occurs after menopause. Bring a list of medicines, contraception, pregnancy possibility, and recent screening results.

Seek urgent medical help for heavy or increasing bleeding, faintness, severe or one-sided pelvic pain, fever, or a positive pregnancy test with bleeding or pain. Prompt assessment is also sensible for bleeding after menopause, bleeding after sex that keeps recurring, or bleeding with foul-smelling discharge.

Could dryness, an infection, a cervical change, or a medicine explain this bleeding? Do I need an examination or testing for Chlamydia? Is my cervical screening up to date, and what symptoms should prompt faster review?