Bleeding During Sex? Here’s What to Know

For many people, having sexual relations is a common and enjoyable activity. There are occasions, though, when it can result in unanticipated issues, such bleeding. Although it can be upsetting, it’s crucial to keep in mind that there are many possible causes for bleeding that occur during or after sex, and most of them are not significant. In this post, we’ll look at some of the typical causes of sex-related bleeding and offer suggestions on when to get medical help.

1. Vaginal Dryness: Vaginal dryness is one of the most frequent reasons for bleeding during sex. Inadequate lubrication can cause friction and small tears in the vaginal tissue, which can cause bleeding. This can happen as a result of things like insufficient arousal, hormonal changes, particular drugs, or menopause. Utilising a water-based lubricant can frequently fix the condition, however speaking with a healthcare provider is advised if it continues.
2. Infections: Several infections have been linked to bleeding during or after sex. Chlamydia, gonorrhoea, trichomoniasis, and genital herpes are STIs that can cause discomfort, inflammation, and bleeding in the vaginal or anal area. Similar symptoms can also be caused by illnesses like yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis. Consult a healthcare professional as soon as you suspect an infection to ensure correct diagnosis and management.
3. Cervical Ectropionise: Also referred to as cervical erosion, cervical ectropion is a benign condition where the cells from the interior of the cervix protrude outward. The cervix may become more sensitive and prone to bleeding during sexual activity as a result. Cervical ectropions, despite it may seem scary, is usually innocuous and doesn’t need to be treated unless it causes a lot of pain or considerable bleeding.
4. Cervical Polyps: On the cervix, tiny, elongated growths called cervical polyps can form. They often aren’t malignant and frequently go unreported. These polyps, however, can be disturbed during intercourse, which might result in bleeding. Despite the fact that the majority of polyps are benign, it is nevertheless advisable to get them examined by a doctor to rule out any hidden conditions.
5. Uterine Fibroids: Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that may appear inside or outside the uterus. They may result in bleeding during sex, depending on their size and placement. Heavy or protracted menstrual flow, pelvic pain, and frequent urination are some other signs of uterine fibroids. To establish the best course of action if you have uterine fibroids, it is crucial to seek medical assistance.
6. Trauma or Injury: Harsh or intense sexual activity may occasionally result in minor wounds or trauma to the genital area, which can cause bleeding. During or after intercourse, bleeding could result from bruising or tearing of the cervix’s or vagina’s fragile tissues. It is crucial to discuss your comfort levels with your spouse and to partake in activities that are mutually agreeable and secure for everyone concerned.
7. Bleeding during or after sex can be a sign of cervical or endometrial cancer, despite the fact that these conditions are uncommon. Other warning signals, such as irregular vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, or bleeding after menopause, may accompany certain types of malignancies. It is critical to contact a medical practitioner right away for a full evaluation if any of these symptoms are present together with sex-related bleeding.

Read Also: What Are the Common Myths and Misconceptions About Sexual Health?

The following advice should be taken into account to stop and treat bleeding during sex:

• Use lubrication to lessen friction and the possibility of tears or bleeding if vaginal dryness is the source of your discomfort.

• Engage in Safe Sex: Safe sex techniques and the use of condoms can help prevent STIs, which can cause bruising and bleeding during sex. Maintaining sexual health also requires routine STI testing.

• Communicate with Your Partner: Having an enjoyable and secure sexual experience requires that you and your partner have an open dialogue about your comfort zones and preferences. This includes talking about any worries you may have about bleeding or discomfort during sex.
• Seek Medical Advice: It’s important to talk to a doctor if you have significant or chronic bleeding during or after sex. They can assess your symptoms, make a precise diagnosis, and, if required, suggest a suitable course of action.

Because every person’s physiology is different, it is important to keep in mind that occasional bleeding during sex is normal and not cause for alarm. The best course of action is to always seek medical guidance for a thorough evaluation if you have any questions or if the bleeding is accompanied by other symptoms.

A healthy and fulfilling sexual experience can be attained by keeping lines of communication open with your healthcare professional and swiftly addressing any worries.

Conclusion

 There are a variety of reasons why someone would bleed during or after sex, most of which are not serious. The causes of bleeding during sexual activity include vaginal dryness, infections, cervical ectropion, cervical polyps, uterine fibroids, trauma or injury, and, in a small percentage of instances, cervical or endometrial cancer. In most situations, bleeding is not a sign of a significant underlying problem, so it’s crucial not to panic if you experience it. But if you have any doubts or if the bleeding continues, it’s always a good idea to speak with a medical expert.