Your sexual health issues

Why do I bleed after sex?

I have recently begun to bleed after having sex. This started about three months ago and occurs at anytime during my cycle. I tend to have quite regular periods of about 27/28 days that last for about five days in duration and cause me no pain.

My current partner has quite a large penis so I'm wondering if this could be a factor. I recently had a smear, and the nurse commented that my sample was pink in colour but that my cervix looked okay. Is this something I should worry about?
lou_uk

Dr Valerie: There are various reasons why a woman may have bleeding between periods and after sex. Erosions on the cervix, as well as infections and polyps (small benign growths) on the cervix and vagina are all possible causes. However, you do say that your cervix was noted to be healthy, so that is reassuring.

Rarely, cancerous changes on the cervix can cause bleeding after sex. This is highly unlikely in a young woman who has regular cervical smears and no history of previous abnormal smear results.

It would be useful to know if you have recently noticed a change in the amount, colour or smell of your vaginal discharge, as these would suggest a possible infection. Infection of the lining of the womb can also, at times, cause unexpected, light bleeding, although this does not necessarily occur after sex. However, polyps in the womb could potentially cause bleeding after sex.

Sometimes, bleeding is related to the type of contraceptive that one is using. You did not say if you are on any contraceptive. The ones that contain progestogens only (like the Mini pill, Mirena and Depo Provera) may cause irregular bleeding in some women. Again, this would not be particularly related to sex, and is not harmful unless the bleeding becomes heavy.

You do point out that your partner has a large penis. As long as intercourse is not traumatic, and you ensure that you are well-lubricated and relaxed beforehand, this should not be a cause of bleeding and discomfort. In case this is a problem, you may want to consider using lubricants.

If your problem is persistent, I would suggest you visit your doctor. He or she will take a detailed history, examine you, perform tests if necessary and offer you treatment if required.