Why does vaginal cancer cause bleeding after sex?

Vaginal cancer may grow in the lining of the vagina. The affected area can have delicate surface tissue and small blood vessels that bleed when rubbed during penetration. Bleeding may be light spotting or more noticeable, and it can happen during or shortly after sex. Other possible symptoms include unusual vaginal discharge, pelvic discomfort, or a lump, although symptoms vary.

Bleeding after sex has many possible explanations, including irritation, dryness, infection, cervical changes, polyps, or hormonal changes. The symptom alone cannot identify its cause. A clinician may examine the vagina and cervix and decide whether tests are needed.

Arrange a medical assessment if bleeding after sex is new, recurrent, or unexplained. Before the appointment, note when it occurs, how much bleeding you see, whether there is pain or discharge, and whether you could be pregnant. Avoid putting anything into the vagina if it worsens bleeding or discomfort, and use a pad if you need to track the flow.

A clinician can ask about your symptoms, review your health history, and perform an examination. Further assessment may include a cervical screening review, imaging, or a small tissue sample, depending on what they find.

Seek urgent medical help if bleeding is heavy or persistent, you feel faint or unusually weak, or you have severe pelvic pain. Get prompt care as well if bleeding occurs during pregnancy, or if it comes with fever or a foul-smelling discharge. These signs can have causes other than cancer but should be assessed without delay.

You could ask: What might be causing the bleeding? Do I need an examination or further tests? Could dryness, infection, or a cervical change explain it? What symptoms should prompt urgent care? When should I follow up if the bleeding happens again?