Intimacy and a successful intimate life is an important aspect of being in a relationship. If you experience symptoms like spotting during or after intercourse, it’s worth exploring the causes and reaching out for help. So-called postcoital bleeding can occur for many reasons. Here are the most important ones.
Causes of bleeding after intercourse
Bleeding after intercourse is a symptom – it can be a sign of your health condition. If it occurs often or always, it is worth consulting your doctor. He or she will take a history, perform or order tests, and be able to advise you on what action to take to solve the problem.
The reason for spotting or bleeding accompanying intercourse can be:An intimate infection, for example caused by a chlamydia infection, as well as other inflammatory conditions such as in the pelvis
- Vaginal dryness or insufficient lubrication – resulting from hormonal disorders or menopause or insufficient arousal
- Excessive intercourse resulting in abrasions or micro-trauma, as well as previous trauma such as that associated with childbirth
- Polyps of the cervix or endometrium
- Vaginal erosion, when there is an area of inflammation on the surface of the cervix.
In rare cases, bleeding after intercourse may be a sign of cervical or vaginal cancer.
Tests to cosider
Depending on your other symptoms and medical history, your specialist may recommend diagnostics to discover the reasons for unusual complaints such as:
- Gynecological examination – using your fingers to feel for any abnormalities, as well as using a speculum
- Cytological examination
- Vaginal culture and/or vaginal biocenosis testing
- A pregnancy test (if conception is suspected)
On the basis of the diagnosis, your doctor will recommend next steps. In the case of vaginal dryness, the solution may be to use gels or other lubricants before intercourse. If the cause is an infection – appropriate treatment will be implemented. If the lesions are unusual, you may need additional counseling or surgery.
Prevention of cervical cancer
Preventive screenings can help prevent cancer or detect it at a very early stage. It is important that all women between the ages of 25 and 64 get regular screening tests to prevent cervical cancer. This can save your life and health.
IMPORTANT: Remember about cytology and get tested regularly – ideally once a year, at least once every 3 years.