Bleeding after sexual intercourse

Bleeding after sexual intercourse can cause discomfort and panic for many women and their partners. Although in some cases it may be harmless, in others it may indicate more serious health problems. In the following text, we'll analyze the possible causes of bleeding, diagnostic and treatment methods, as well as expert recommendations for prevention.

Possible causes of bleeding after sexual intercourse

Bleeding after sexual intercourse, i.e. postcoital bleeding, has different causes and these are the most common:

1. Injury or irritation of the vaginal tissue often occurs during rough or insufficiently moist intercourse, and this can cause small wounds or scratches on the vaginal mucosa and worsen the occurrence of bleeding.

2. Infections are the second most common cause, and sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, can cause inflammation of the cervix, which also leads to bleeding.

3. Polyps and other benign growths (lesions) are non-cancerous growths that can bleed during or after intercourse, and their cause is irritation caused by friction.

4. Hormonal changes such as decreased estrogen levels in menopausal women can cause vaginal dryness and atrophic vaginitis, which can lead to bleeding.

5. Cervical cancer is rarer than previously mentioned causes, but postcoital bleeding can be an early symptom of cervical cancer, especially in women who haven't had regular preventive tests (Pap test).

Diagnosis of postcoital bleeding

Diagnosis of the cause of bleeding after sexual intercourse includes, first of all, a thorough medical history, and then a physical examination by a specialist. The doctor may perform the following diagnostic tests to determine the cause of the bleeding:

• Gynecological examination during which the cervix is ​​also examined and the presence of lesions, polyps, or signs of infection can be identified.

• Pap tests and HPV testing are tests used to detect precancerous changes on the cervix.

• Microbiological tests used to diagnose sexually transmitted infections, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis.

• An ultrasound examination can help to assess abnormalities in the area of ​​the ovaries and uterus.

Treatments and prevention

Treatment depends on the underlying cause of postcoital bleeding. If the cause is irritation or vaginal dryness, the doctor may recommend water-based lubricants or therapy that includes estrogen. If infections are present, antibiotics are the standard treatment, and when polyps are the cause, surgical removal is possible to prevent further bleeding and more serious injury.

Prevention is a basic method to prevent bleeding after intercourse, so it is recommended:

• Using adequate lubricants during intercourse.

• Maintaining regular gynecological examinations and preventive (Pap) tests.

• Avoiding rough penetration that can cause injuries to the vaginal tissue.

• Proper hygiene and protection against sexually transmitted infections by using contraception - condoms.

Bleeding after intercourse can have a variety of causes, from harmless injuries to serious medical conditions such as cervical cancer. Timely diagnosis and adequate treatment are key to preventing complications and preserving reproductive health. Regular examinations at the gynecologist and responsible sexual behavior are key to significantly reducing the risk of postcoital bleeding and its causes.

*This text is intended for informational purposes only. If you experience any symptoms, it is recommended that you seek advice from your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional.*

*Image taken from the site:https://unsplash.com/photos/person-standing-on-white-ceramic-floor-tiles-95-cYFObGH0

References

MedPark Hospital. (n.d.). Postcoital bleeding (bleeding after sex). Preuzeto 29, januara 2025, sa https://www.medparkhospital.com/en-US/disease-and-treatment/postcoital-bleeding-bleeding-after-sex

Tarney, C. M., & Han, J. (2014). Postcoital bleeding: A review on etiology, diagnosis, and management. Obstetrics and Gynecology International, 2014, 192087. https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/192087