Bleeding after sex can be a cause for concern, but it’s not always a reason to worry. In some cases, it can even be totally normal. It’s important to understand the underlying causes, and how to address them if they’re an issue. Read on to learn more about what can cause bleeding after sex, when it’s time to see a doctor, and how to take care of yourself.
What Causes Bleeding After Sex?
There can be several possible causes for bleeding after sex. These include:
- Hormonal changes
- Infection
- Friction
- Injury
- Cervical cancer
- Uterine growths
- Birth control
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes can cause vaginal dryness and thinning of the vaginal walls. This can lead to minor bleeding or spotting after sex. The most common time that this occurs is during the first trimester of pregnancy. This can also occur during perimenopause, when a woman’s hormones are transitioning from a regular menstrual cycle to menopause.
Infection
Infections such as bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, or yeast infections can cause bleeding after sex. These infections can cause inflammation of the vagina, which can lead to discomfort and bleeding. Sex can irritate the inflamed area and cause further irritation, which can lead to bleeding.
Friction
Sometimes, too much friction can cause irritation and tearing of the skin in the vagina. This can cause minor bleeding after sex. This is especially true if you’re using lubricants that contain oils or fragrances, which can cause further irritation. If you’re experiencing this, try using a lubricant that’s free of fragrances and oils.
Injury
Injury to the vagina can also cause bleeding after sex. This can occur if the penis is too large for the vagina, if vigorous thrusting is used during sex, or if the woman is not aroused enough and the vagina is not lubricated enough. If you’re experiencing this, try using more lubrication and using gentler thrusting during sex.
Cervical Cancer
In rare cases, bleeding after sex can be a sign of cervical cancer. This is usually accompanied by other symptoms such as pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding, and pain during sex. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor right away. Cervical cancer is treatable if it’s caught early.
Uterine Growths
Uterine growths, such as polyps or fibroids, can cause bleeding after sex. These growths can cause irritation to the uterus and vagina, which can lead to bleeding. If you’re experiencing this, it’s important to see a doctor to make sure that the growths are benign.
Birth Control
In some cases, birth control can cause bleeding after sex. This is especially true if you’re taking hormonal birth control, such as the pill or the patch. In this case, the bleeding is usually light and usually stops after a few months. If it doesn’t, it’s important to see a doctor.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Some STIs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, can cause bleeding after sex. This is usually accompanied by other symptoms such as itching, burning, and pain during urination. It’s important to see a doctor if you’re experiencing these symptoms, as they can be treated with antibiotics. If left untreated, they can cause serious complications.
When to See a Doctor
It’s important to see a doctor if you’re experiencing bleeding after sex that’s not normal for you. This is especially true if the bleeding is heavy, lasts for more than a few days, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, itching, or a foul smell. Your doctor can help determine the cause and provide treatment if needed.
How to Take Care of Yourself
If you’re experiencing bleeding after sex, there are a few things you can do to take care of yourself. First, it’s important to see a doctor if you’re concerned about the cause of the bleeding. Second, it’s important to practice safe sex by using condoms to reduce your risk of STIs. Finally, it’s important to use lubricants during sex to reduce friction and irritation.
Conclusion
Bleeding after sex can be a cause for concern, but it’s not always a reason to worry. In some cases, it can even be totally normal. It’s important to understand the underlying causes, and how to address them if they’re an issue. If you’re concerned about bleeding after sex, it’s important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.