Bleeding during sex – is it normal?

There are many common causes for bleeding during intercourse, from an infection to vaginal tears. Find out everything you need to know here, including if you need to see a doctor or not.

The causes of bleeding during sex

When to see a doctor

Key points

The sight of blood – particularly during sex – can come as a bit of a shock, especially if you're not on a period.


It's also inconvenient and can make you feel a little embarrassed, but it's nothing to be ashamed of.

Having said this, unless the bleeding came after you had sex for the first time, it's a good idea to book an appointment with your doctor to find out what's going on. In most cases, such as bleeding caused by changes to your cervix, the problem is nothing to worry about and easily treatable.

Read on to find out all the possible causes of bleeding during sex, whether you need specific treatment for it, and the red flags to watch out for.

## The causes of bleeding during sex

### Changes in your cervix

Your cervix is another name for the neck of your womb, which leads to your vagina. Changes in the cells of your cervix are really common and in some cases, these changes can cause bleeding during sex.

The medical name for this is cervical ectropion (also known as cervical erosion or ectopy). It's when soft cells from inside your cervical canal grow onto the outside of your cervix. 

This can be caused by:
- hormonal changes when you're pregnant - which may lead to spotting during sex after pregnancy
- taking the [combined contraceptive pill](/health-library/drugs/combined-pill)
- going through puberty

The condition might be diagnosed during a [pap smear](/health-library/medical-exams/cervical-screening-test), but try not to worry, it isn’t linked to cervical cancer in any way. In fact, most cases of cervical ectropion are harmless, but because the cells are soft, they can bleed or may cause pain during or after sex. 

It's important to speak to a doctor if you're getting symptoms though. They can help find out what's going on and suggest the right type of treatment for you. 

To examine your cervix, your doctor will use a speculum to gently open your vagina, which is a similar procedure to a pap smear. While this isn't usually painful, it might feel a little uncomfortable.

If it does, you could ask:
- for a smaller speculum to be used
- to try and insert it yourself

Learn more tips for how to stay as [relaxed as possible during a pap smear](/self-care/smear-test-tips).

Get help with this

### Having sex for the first time
Another common reason for bleeding during sex is having [sex for the first time](/womens-sexual-health/bleeding-after-sex). This is completely normal and nothing to worry about. It happens because penetrative sex (a penis entering the vagina) can break your hymen – a thin piece of skin that partially covers the opening to your vagina. 

But it's important to know that your hymen can be broken in other ways, too, so not bleeding after you first have sex is also very normal. In many cases, you won't feel any pain or notice it's even happened.

Some of these activities include:

- horse riding
- vigorous sports
- using tampons

### Other reasons for bleeding during sex

There might also be other reasons why you're bleeding during sex, which could be caused by:

- an infection, such as some [sexually transmitted infections](/health-library/conditions/sexually-transmitted-infections)
- [vaginal dryness](/health-library/symptoms/dry-vagina) (often triggered by menopause)
- tears in the vagina caused by dryness or friction during sex, or damage during childbirth
- polyps – non-cancerous growths in the womb or lining of the cervix

In rarer cases, unexpected vaginal bleeding – including bleeding after sex – can be one of the first signs of cervical cancer. Other symptoms of this condition can include:

- discomfort or pain during sex
- [unusual vaginal discharge](/health-library/symptoms/abnormal-vaginal-discharge)
- pain in the pelvis or lower back

If you're worried about any of the above symptoms, speak to a doctor. Cervical cancer is often curable if it's caught early, so it's best to book an appointment right away.

If, after this step, you are diagnosed with cervical cancer, know that you're not alone. There are many charities and communities you can get involved with, which may help you to find other women going through a similar situation, and signpost you to other useful resources.

- If you live in the US you can visit [The National Cervical Cancer Coalition](https://www.nccc-online.org)
- If you're in the UK try [Jo's Trust](https://www.jostrust.org.uk)
- You could also find out more about [cervical cancer](/health-library/conditions/cancer-of-the-cervix) on our dedicated page

## When to see a doctor

If you notice bleeding during sex, see a doctor about it, except if the bleeding comes after having sex for the first time. They can help put your mind at rest, or advise you on your next best steps.

If you notice any [bleeding after the menopause](/menopause/postmenopausal-bleeding-or-spotting) see a doctor as soon as possible.

At your appointment, your doctor may suggest some examinations or tests, depending on your symptoms and your medical history. This will help you get to the bottom of the cause of bleeding and work out what treatment is best for you, if any.

But if you have severe vaginal bleeding, or other worsening symptoms, call for emergency help right away. These symptoms could include: 

- heavy blood loss that won’t stop
- cold and clammy skin
- [bleeding in pregnancy](/health-library/symptoms/vaginal-bleeding-while-pregnant)
- recent surgery or injury to your stomach or genital area
- losing consciousness 
- heavy vaginal bleeding that won't stop
- palpitations or a fast heart rate
- feeling faint or losing consciousness

## Key points
- bleeding during sex can be worrying. It's usually nothing to worry about but make sure you see a doctor about it
- you may bleed during sex if it’s your first time
- changes in the cervix are a common cause for bleeding during sex and not linked to cervical cancer
- bleeding during sex can also be a sign of a health condition that needs treatment
- if you have severe vaginal bleeding and other worsening symptoms, get emergency medical help as soon as you can

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References

Helen Prentice

Susie Parker

Dr Adiele Hoffman

Article information

All of Healthily's articles undergo medical safety checks to verify that the information is medically safe. View more details in our <a href="/safety" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">safety page</a>, or read our <a href="/legal/editorial-policy-principles" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">editorial policy</a>.

There are many common causes for bleeding during intercourse from an infection to vaginal tears, so find out more and check whether you need to see a doctor.