Vaginal bleeding after sex

Vaginal bleeding after sex – what can it be?

Vaginal bleeding after intercourse is relatively common and may also occur on days when menstruation is not expected. Although commonly referred to as “vaginal” bleeding, the term refers to both bleeding from the vagina and bleeding from other parts of the genitals and excretory system.

Vaginal bleeding after sex is most common in young women who have not reached menopause. Relatively less common in older people who have passed this period. Then the condition is a reason to see a doctor.

In older women, the source of vaginal bleeding after sex is usually the cervix. Even when she is perfectly healthy, enough friction or minor trauma during intercourse can cause bleeding.

Inflammation of the cervix or other abnormal conditions, most of which are harmless, can also cause bleeding. However, sometimes vaginal bleeding after intercourse is a sign of a sexually transmitted infection.

In postmenopausal women, this symptom can be associated with both the bladder and the vulva or the uterus and cervix.

Possible causes of vaginal bleeding after sex include:

• Cervicitis – inflammation of the cervix;
• Polyps on the cervix – benign formations on the cervix;
• Friction during intercourse;
• Genital ulcers, which are the result of sexually transmitted infections such as genital herpes or syphilis
• Insufficient amount of lubrication during sex;
• Violation of the lining of the uterus during intercourse, especially in women using birth control pills;
• Dryness of the vagina;
• Vaginitis.