The cervix (the tube-like part of the uterus that is located inside the vaginal canal) is where most causes of bleeding during sex start. Cervicitis is inflammation of the cervix that can cause abnormal bleeding during or after your intimate moments. Cervicitis is usually nothing to be concerned about, but it can become an ongoing problem.
In some cases, cervicitis can develop as the result of a sexually transmitted infection like gonorrhea or chlamydia. If this is the case, treatment is necessary. Sexually transmitted diseases don’t typically go away on their own, and leaving them untreated can cause worsening health issues.
Other common causes of bleeding during sex include:
- Cervical polyps: These are small growths on the cervix and are usually non-cancerous. They can be removed with surgery.
- A vaginal or cervical infection: These are sometimes caused by sexually transmitted diseases, but not always.
- Too much friction during sex: Yes, some friction is a good thing, but not when you don’t have enough lubrication due to vaginal dryness! Too much friction from vaginal dryness can irritate the vaginal tissue and lead to irregular bleeding during and after sex. Vaginal dryness is often caused by hormone imbalances that can occur at any time during childbearing years, in the years leading up to menopause, during menopause, or after menopause.
- Genital sores: These generally come from herpes or other types of STDs.
- Normal menstrual bleeding: This is likely if you are starting your period or are at the tail end of it.
- Pelvic organ prolapse: When pelvic organs descend or droop lower than they should, it is called pelvic organ prolapse. This is a potential cause of vaginal bleeding during sex.
- Cervical ectropion: When you have cervical ectropion, your cervix’s inner lining protrudes through the opening of the cervix and begins to grow on the outside of the cervix (on the side where the vaginal wall is located). Cervical ectropion doesn’t usually cause many symptoms, but bleeding after sex is one potential sign of the condition.
- Pregnancy: Light uterine bleeding can be a sign of early pregnancy. Some women bleed during implantation. Implantation bleeding is usually more like spotting and appears pink or brown in color. Minor bleeding isn’t usually anything to worry about, and many women who experience it go on to have a healthy pregnancy. But bleeding during pregnancy can also be an indication of a pending miscarriage, placental abruption, ectopic pregnancy, or placenta previa. For these reasons, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider if you experience any abnormal uterine bleeding during pregnancy.
- Cervical cancer: No one likes to use the big “C” word, but it’s important to know that vaginal bleeding during sex could be an indication of cervical or uterine cancer.
Though cervical cancer is one of the rarer bleeding causes during or after intercourse, it is still important to seek medical advice if you experience other common symptoms associated with the condition. Common symptoms of cervical cancer include pelvic pain during intercourse, problems having bowel movements or urinating, blood in the urine, or unusual vaginal discharge.
Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cause of cancer in women. There are several different types of cervical cancer, including adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and mixed carcinoma. As with other cancers, cervical cancer has four different stages. For the best outcome, early detection and treatment are key. A pelvic examination and pap smear are usually sufficient to detect cervical cancer.