When to worry about bleeding after sex with cervical polyps

A cervical polyp is a small growth on the cervix that can be irritated by contact. This may cause spotting after sex, bleeding between periods, or discharge. Many polyps are benign, but appearance alone cannot always establish what a growth is. A pelvic examination lets the clinician locate the source; removal may be offered, and the tissue may be sent for laboratory assessment.

Make a gynaecology appointment if you have not had the polyp examined, or if bleeding continues after it was found. Write down episodes, menstrual timing, pain, discharge, and whether you could be pregnant. Ask whether sex or tampon use should pause until review. Do not pull at or try to remove a growth yourself, because this can cause more bleeding and injury.

Seek urgent help for heavy or ongoing bleeding, faintness, severe pelvic pain, fever, or discharge with a strong unpleasant smell. Get prompt advice if bleeding follows a removal procedure and is more than expected. Bleeding after menopause also warrants timely assessment, even if a polyp has been seen previously.

Ask where the polyp is located, whether it should be removed, and what follow-up is needed afterward. Clarify whether cervical screening or infection testing is due, how to manage bleeding at home, and which symptoms mean you should call the clinic immediately.