Can Hitting The Cervix Cause Bleeding
The short answer: yes, definitely. The long answer: The cervix tends to be more sensitive at certain times of the monthand some people just have sensitive cervixes in generalwhich can lead to spotting after sex.
If you notice some bloody discharge after sex and youre in the middle of your cycle, its not necessarily a problem, as long as, again, it happens very rarely. During ovulation, can be more sensitive, causing spotting during intercourse, Sherry A. Ross, M.D., an ob-gyn in Santa Monica, California, and author of She-ology: The Definitive Guide to Womens Intimate Health. Period., tells SELF. This can be even more common for people taking hormonal birth control, she adds.
Bleeding during or after sex is also more likely if the sex is rough and/or penetration is very deep, not only hitting the cervix once but over and over again.
Dr. Moritz also adds that younger people tend to have more sensitive cervixes that can bleed easily from something like rough sex or even a procedure like a Pap smear or pelvic exam.
You Might Have Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is rare in women who get regular Pap tests. Still, thousands of new cases are diagnosed in the US each year. And “bleeding with sex is the main symptom of cervical cancer,” says Dr. Gersh. “The bleeding is typically light and painless. It’s due to the vascular nature of cervical cancer and that the friction of sex can irritate tissue and cause bleeding.”
If you have continued or persistent abnormal bleeding, tell your MD. She’ll want to examine your cervix closeup, and she’ll make sure you’re up to date with your Paps and HPV testing, says Dr. Mahnert. Sure it’s scary. But play it safe and give your doctor the chance to officially rule it out.
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Bleeding During Sex Vs Postcoital Bleeding: Does The Timing Matter
Healthcare professionals typically put non-menstrual bleeding that happens either during sex or after sex into the same category. 2 The exact timing isnt important. You might be a little bit too distracted to notice exactly when those first drops of blood were shed, anywaysso dont stress if you cant pin down those details.
We will note, however, that vaginal bleeding after sex can sometimes be confused with bleeding coming from other areas, such as the urinary tract or the rectum. A small mirror and a clean tissue can come in handy when identifying exactly where the blood is coming frombut if you cant tell, no worries. Just keep your provider in the loop and take note of any other symptoms .
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What If It Really Is Your Period
Its not unheard of to start your period a bit sooner than you expected after having sexbut when we say a bit sooner, we mean by a couple of days, and not a whole week or more. If your period was already scheduled to arrive, .
Nothing is more of a buzz-kill than unexpectedly staining the sheets when your period arrives mid-sesh. But dont let a little blood stop you from having fun: Try a menstrual disc, like Flex Disc, next time youre on your period and have all the mess-free period sex your heart desires. Want to learn more about having sex with a menstrual disc? Read all about it here.
How Can I Know If My Period Is Too ‘heavy’
It can be difficult to know whether you have normal menstrual bleeding or if your period is too heavy. Your period shouldnt interrupt your daily activities such as going to school or work, nor should it make you feel stressed or anxious. Signs that you may be bleeding too heavily during your period include:
- having to change your tampon or pad every hour
- bleeding or ‘flooding’ which is not contained by a thick pad
- having to change your pad during the night
- bleeding for more than 8 days
- passing clumps of blood bigger than a 50-cent piece
If you are concerned that your period is too heavy, you should speak to your doctor to help you work out the cause of your heavy bleeding and to seek solutions.
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Consequences Of Ignoring Vaginal Bleeding Between Periods
In some cases, this kind of abnormal bleeding will resolve on its own. However, for some women, the underlying cause requires treatment. Ignoring the problem and failing to see a doctor can lead to a worsening of the problem. If the cause of the bleeding is an infection, cancer, or another serious disorder, the consequences could be life-threatening.
Bleeding After Sex During Pregnancy: Is It A Reason For Concern
Light bleeding during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy is not uncommon. The cause of this spotting 10 to 14 days after conception may be the egg implanting into the blood-rich uterine lining. In this case, light bleeding after sex should not be concerning.
Most miscarriages occur in the first trimester. If youre pregnant and experience any bleeding and/or cramping, contact your health care provider immediately.
After 12 weeks, miscarriage is less likely, and light bleeding after sex is fairly common in the second trimester. This is because the cervix and uterus have an increased amount of blood supplying these areas. Because of this, it may be easier for small blood vessels to be damaged during intercourse.
During pregnancy, light bleeding after sex without cramps may be caused by something making contact with your cervix. To help alleviate this, try different sex positions that might be more comfortable. If you have any concerns at all, its best to speak to a health care provider.
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Scanty Period: What Causes Less Bleeding During Periods
If perhaps you just noticed less bleeding during periods , it may not mean much. During the menstrual cycle and because of hormone imbalance, you may experience lighter than usual bleeding sometimes.
However, if persistent for many periods, it may indicate a problem.
In some women, lighter than usual period bleeding may be the first sign of pregnancy. This occurs because of implantation bleeding.
Other reasons for a light period are perimenopause, drugs, sexual intercourse with a vaginal tear, weight loss, hypothalamus dysfunction, contraceptives, abortion and thyroid problems.
Is Bleeding After Sex Serious
If you have some minor bleeding every once in a while, chances are everything is fine. But the only way to know for sure is to see your doctor for a physical exam.
If the bleeding happens right before you get your period or within a few days after it ends and it doesnât happen again, you can hold off on making that appointment. You can also probably hold off if you recently had a pelvic exam and Pap smear and got a clean bill of health. In all other cases — or if youâre just worried — itâs best to get checked out to rule out infection or anything more serious.
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Cancers Of The Reproductive System
In most cases, bleeding between periods is not a cause for concern. However, vaginal bleeding between periods is one possible symptom of certain types of cancer. It is especially important to take note of abnormal vaginal bleeding if you have entered menopause.
The following cancers may cause irregular vaginal bleeding:
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Vaginal Bleeding Treatments And Relief
Vaginal bleeding can be discomforting and distressing even during a normal menstrual cycle. Seeking prompt medical attention when you notice symptoms of abnormal bleeding will accelerate your diagnosis and allow you to get the appropriate treatment. Your treatment will depend on the cause of your symptoms and the results of any testing.
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Preventing Bleeding After Sex
You can make some lifestyle changes to lower your risk of bleeding after sex:
- Use a lubricant before and during sex
- Wait a bit longer after your period ends to start having sex again.
- Have your doctor remove any cervical polyps or treat cervical infections.
- Have more foreplay before penetration
- Try less aggressive sex
Show Sources
Mayo Clinic: âVaginal bleeding after sex: Definition,â âVaginal bleeding after sex: Causes,â âChlamydia: Symptoms,â “Gonorrhea: Symptoms and causes,â âVaginal bleeding after sex: When to see a doctor,â âChlamydia: Treatments and drugs,â âColposcopy: What you can expect,â âColposcopy: Definition.â
Obstetrics and Gynecology International: âPostcoital Bleeding: A Review on Etiology, Diagnosis, and Management,â âVaginal dryness after menopause: How to treat it.â
Harvard Medical School: âCervical Polyps.â
ACOG: The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: âFAQs: Perimenopausal Bleeding and Bleeding After Menopause,â âFAQs: Cervical Cancer,â âFAQs: Bleeding During Pregnancy.â
American Cancer Society: âCervical Cancer,â âCervical Cancer: Signs and Symptoms of Cervical Cancer.â
CDC Publication: âCervical Cancer.â
National Health Service : âWhat causes a woman to bleed after sex?â
Cleveland Clinic: âDo You Bleed After Sex? When to See a Doctor.â
HealthyWomen: âBleeding After Sex: Should You Be Concerned?â
RagiologyInfo.org: âAbnormal Vaginal Bleeding.â
Do You Need To Use Protection
Using protection will also guard you against STIs. Not only can you catch an STI during your period, but you can also more easily transmit one to your partner because viruses like HIV live in menstrual blood.
Have your partner wear a latex condom every time you have sex to reduce your odds of getting pregnant and catching an STI. If you or your partner are allergic to latex, there are other forms of protection you can use. You can ask your pharmacist or doctor for recommendations.
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Sexual And Physical Trauma
Often times bleeding during sex is related to infections and abnormal functions in your reproductive organs. Bleeding can simply be the result of physical trauma. You may be having overly rough sex, which can tear vaginal tissue. Tearing during sex is more likely to occur because of vaginal dryness, which can happen due to menopause, breastfeeding, and unsafe vaginal cleaning .
On a more serious matter, vaginal bleeding can be the product of sexual abuse. Victims of forced entry can risk vaginal tears that need to be medically treated.
Why Am I Bleeding After Sex Common Causes
Weve said it before and well say it again: Pay attention to your vagina! It can tell you more about your underlying health than you might think.
Anything thats noticeably outside the norm for youand, remember, this might not be the same as the norm for your best friendis worth bringing up to your PCP or healthcare provider. This includes bleeding when you wouldnt typically expect it.
If youre not on your period, vaginal bleeding can be caused by a range of issues affecting the reproductive system. Some of the conditions that could cause you to bleed during or after sex include: 12
- Vaginal atrophy or vaginal dryness
- Perimenopause
- Cervical or endometrial polyps
- Uterine prolapse
- Cervical or endometrial cancer
While many of the above conditions are treatable or relatively benign, its important to note that postcoital bleeding is one of the first symptoms of cervical cancer. About 11% of people with cervical cancer experience some bleeding during or after sex. 3
Dont panic, though: The prevalence of cervical cancer has gone down in recent years, largely thanks to the uptick in screening. Just make sure youre getting regular Pap smears and pelvic exams.
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Whats The Doctor Checking For
Your healthcare provider needs to gather info to accurately diagnose your case.
Expect to tell your doctor about your bleeding and any other symptoms. Since your visit is for a sex-associated concern, you may be asked about your sexual activity. Your doctor might also ask about other health issues and medications youre taking.
Your doc will then recommend assessments to pinpoint the source of your bleeding and the underlying cause. They may recommend a physical exam, which might include a pelvic exam, a pap smear, a urine test, or ultrasound imaging. These screen for STIs, cancer, pregnancy, and other PCB-causing conditions.
The short answer: yes. Once you know why youre bleeding, your doctor can offer treatment options.
Is It Normal To Bleed After Sex
According to gynaecological cancers charity, The Eve Appeal, bleeding and light spotting after sex is more common than you might think if you’re pre-menopausal. “Most of the time it isnt something to worry about,” they say. “But do still note it down if it’s something you experience, as well as whether or not you experience any pain it’s always worth investigating.”
The NHS website refers to bleeding after sex as “postcoital bleeding” and also say that you can visit a sexual health clinic for advice. They add that “in rare instances, bleeding and light spotting after sex can be a sign of cervical or vaginal cancer“, and that you may also need to take a pregnancy test when you visit a healthcare professional to discuss it.
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What Can You Expect During Your Doctor Visit
Your doctor will take a health history and ask about:
- Other irregular bleeding.
- Unusual pain that doesnt seem to relate to the bleeding.
- A change in sexual partners.
- A change in vaginal discharge.
- When you had your last Pap test.
A physical exam will check for signs of infection.
If your Pap test isnt current, your doctor will be sure to perform one for you while youre in their office. A Pap screening can help determine the need for any further tests or procedures.
If your testing shows no problems, but your bleeding continues and it only occurs after sex your doctor will likely want to check your cervix and do a biopsy. This may show any underlying condition that a physical exam and Pap smear did not find.
The important thing to remember is that most of the time it is nothing bad and goes away on its own, Dr. Simpson says. But its sometimes a sign of a serious underlying condition that needs attention.
You Could Use More Lubrication During Sex
This one makes total sense. Dryness plus excessive friction equals staining of the sheets. Vaginal dryness can occur for a number of reasons.
It could be one of other menopause symptoms that can occur at any age. Or it could be that you are not suitably aroused . ‘If sex feels uncomfortable, additional lubrication can really help,’ Currie says.
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Is Bleeding During Sex Normal
All of Healthily’s articles undergo medical safety checks to verify that the information is medically safe. View more details in our safety page, or read our editorial policy.
The sight of blood can come as a bit of a shock and this is particularly true during sex.
It should always be checked by a doctor, except after having sex for the first time.
Read on to learn about some of the common causes of bleeding during sex.
Can You Have Sex During Your Period
During your reproductive years, youll get a menstrual period about once a month. Unless youre especially squeamish, theres no need to avoid sexual activity during your period. Though period sex can be a bit messy, it is safe. And, having sex when youre menstruating can actually offer a few advantages, including relief from menstrual cramps.
Read on to learn more about sex during your period.
Having sex during your period has a few upsides:
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What Are The Possible Side Effects
The biggest downside to having sex during your period is the mess. Blood can get on you, your partner, and the sheets, especially if you have a heavy flow. Aside from dirtying the bed, bleeding may make you feel self-conscious. Anxiety over making a mess can take some or all of the fun out of sex.
Another worry about having sex during your period is the risk of passing on a sexually transmitted infection like HIV or hepatitis. These viruses live in blood, and they can spread through contact with infected menstrual blood. Using condoms every time you have sex can reduce your risk of spreading or catching an STI.
Can Medications Cause Vaginal Bleeding
Some medications, such as anticoagulants can make you more likely to bleed. If you are taking an anticoagulant and are experiencing vaginal bleeding, you should speak to your doctor right away. Do not stop taking any prescribed medication unless instructed to do so by your doctor.
Hormone replacement therapy after menopause can sometimes cause irregular bleeding. This is not a cause for concern and should settle down after several months.
Abnormal vaginal bleeding is also common when you start using hormonal contraception . If it does not go away or is bothering you, talk to your doctor.
Abnormal bleeding can also occur when you change or stop your hormonal contraception.
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Other Reasons For Bleeding During Sex
Bleeding during or after sex can have several other causes, including:
- an infection, including some sexually transmitted infections
- vaginal dryness
- polyps non-cancerous growths in the womb or lining of the cervix
In some cases, unexpected vaginal bleeding including bleeding after sex can be one of the first signs of cervical cancer. Other symptoms can include discomfort or pain during sex, unusual vaginal discharge and pain in the pelvis or lower back. If youre concerned, you should book an appointment with your doctor its often curable when its found early.