12+ REASONS YOU MIGHT BE BLEEDING AFTER SEX AND HOW TO DEAL WITH IT

It is common to bleed after sex. In most cases, it is harmless. Herein are the reasons you may be bleeding after sex. Also, discover how to deal with this condition below.

 Some women experience bleeding or spotting immediately after having sex. post-coital bleeding should be monitored, especially if it lasts longer than four weeks. Knowing what's causing you to bleed after sex is crucial in preventing it from happening again. This article will help you ascertain why you are bleeding post-coitus and how to deal with it.

Reasons Why You Are Bleeding After Sex

Vaginal Atrophy

Also known as vaginal dryness, this condition occurs due to hormonal imbalance, menopause, age drugs, or lack of arousal. However, vaginal dryness isn't always a concern because some females are naturally dryer than others.

Losing Your Virginity

It's natural to bleed when you indulge in sex for the first time and probably a few sessions afterward. However, this is mainly due to vaginal tears. It is important to note that not every woman has a hymen, and not every woman bleeds when they have sex for the first time.

Pregnancy

Although intercourse is normally safe for a pregnant woman, bleeding may occur. It could be a case of breakthrough bleeding, which occurs when one would normally be on their period. Although bleeding during pregnancy can be normal and occur even if you aren't having sex, it is essential to seek medical attention.

Vaginal Scarring

Vaginal scarring could stem from rough intercourse or regular sex, especially if one hasn't had penetration in a long time. It may also occur when fingering oneself with long nails, tough exercises while at the gym, or giving birth. All these activities injure the vaginal tissue, resulting in sex-related bleeding. 

Cervical Polyps

A polyp is a tiny, harmless tumor that grows in the cervix. It is a sign that the cervical tissue has expanded uncontrollably. If you have no symptoms from cervical polyps, you may be safe.

Bacterial Infection

Bacterial vaginosis (BV), or vaginal bacterial infections, is prevalent and can cause bleeding after sex. A bacterial infection can be caused by medications, douching, or sex toys. BV recurrence is also common. If you've had it previously, it's not surprising that you'll get it again.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Your sex-related bleeding could be due to an STI. In one study, HPV was found in 5.6 % of individuals who reported post-coital bleeding. Gonorrhea, an STI, is famous for bloody discharge between periods.

Cervical Ectropion

Cervical ectropion, also called cervical erosion, happens when the cells lining the cervix become visible on its surface or when the body's cells do not function normally. These cells are thin and bleed easily during sex which leads to bleeding. 

Giving Birth

After birth, a woman's body undergoes hormonal changes. Hormonal changes during pregnancy make the cervical lining extend down to the bottom of the body, which results in bleeding after sex.

Cervical Cancer

It is crucial to know vaginal, uterine, and cervical cancer signs and symptoms. Heavy or chronic bleeding may indicate precancerous or cancerous alterations. In case of anything unusual, consult with a doctor to ascertain the cause of the bleeding.

Periods

Engaging in sex a few days before your period could make you experience early menstruation. This is normal, especially if you engage in rough sex.

Genital Piercings

A genital piercing may cause bleeding during sex. Avoid having sex when your genital piercing is still fresh, and give it time to heal to avoid the infections that come with infected piercings.

Vascular Tumors

Vascular tumors are malignant soft-tissue growths generated from the lymph nodes or blood vessels. Under normal circumstances, they can go unnoticed. A doctor can remove the tumors before they worsen. Bleeding as a result of vascular tumors is rare, but it happens. 

How To Prevent Bleeding After Sex In Future

Most women know the root cause of their post-coital bleeding. The measures below will guide you on what to do for those who don't. 

Be Gentle

Practice gentleness when handling your naughty bits. Ask your spouse to trim their nails before any fingering session. If they are not for that idea, you can invest in a rubber glove that adds an extra protection layer to the fingers.

Use Lube

Using lube during sex, especially for people who experience vaginal dryness, can make things slick and comfy. Lubricant aids in having safer sex and may protect you from infections or unintended pregnancy. 

Focus on Foreplay for Arousal

When you're fully aroused, you can boost your lubrication and the ability of your vagina to expand. 

Switch Positions

During sex, consider taking a position that restricts the penetration depth or force. You have more control when riding your man. If you know a position like doggy style hits deep, avoid it to prevent sex-incurred bleeding.

Use Condoms

Unprotected sex has been linked to a higher prevalence of post-coital bleeding. Condoms can reduce the chances of post-coital bleeding. 

When To See a Doctor

You should probably seek professional care if you're bleeding severely, frequently, or can't stop bleeding with the preceding recommendations. Your doctor may insert swabs in your cervix and do a pap smear. They might also suggest that you take a pregnancy test. Colposcopy has become a more popular procedure for women experiencing sex-related bleeding, particularly those with an irregular cervical appearance. There may be no need to be concerned if you have minor bleeding after intercourse. 

The Bottom Line

If it's your first time or it's been a while since your previous sexual experience, it's natural to bleed afterward. Excess blood or recurring bleeding after sex could signify something more dangerous, especially if other symptoms accompany it. If you have experienced post-coital bleeding before, it may be due to one of the reasons listed above.