Are vaginal spots after sexual intercourse normal? when to check

It is scary to notice signs of spotting or vaginal bleeding in the absence of menstruation.

But don’t be afraid. There are many things that can cause this, but most are not serious. However, if it persists, it is advisable to consult with your doctor.

But what is normal and when is the time to think?

Formally known as “postcoital bleeding,” postcoital spotting is said to be found in 10% of women.

This is even more common in slightly older women, with up to 63% of postmenopausal women experiencing vaginal dryness, vaginal bleeding, or spotting.

Occasional bleeding can be normal, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

What causes the spots?

“Bleeding after intercourse is the usual cause,” advises Dr. Kandy Ejiofor.

“A lot of times he’s not nervous, but if there’s a cause, it’s usually a sexually transmitted disease like chlamydia.

This is especially true for young women, but in older women it can be due to vaginal dryness, which is common during menopause.

Dr. Narendra Pizzar, a gynecological consultant in London, reports that there are other common causes, including cervical polyps (benign growths of the cervix) and cervical ectroposis.

Ectropion or cervical erosion occurs on the cervix and can be a more delicate area that can be prone to bleeding.

“It’s common in women taking oral contraceptives,” says Dr. Kandy.

“Ongoing vaginal bleeding can be caused by polyps in the uterus that are not cancerous growths, but in rarer cases it can be due to cervical or vaginal cancer,” she says.

Occasionally, bleeding may be due to physical abrasions.

“Rough sex, sex toys, first intercourse, and vaginal damage during childbirth can also cause post-sex spotting,” she says.

“Sex without condoms can increase the risk of infection, which increases the risk of staining,” he adds.

Menopausal women may experience vaginal dryness, which can cause spotting even after sexual intercourse.

Dr. Pizzar also reminds us that spotting may be more common around the time of menstruation.

He usually advises that there be a brief explanation for the bleeding.

When do you see a doctor?

If the spot comes back, you should always see your doctor or OB/GYN.

“Permanent stains after sex are not common,” says Dr. Pizal.

“Very often this can be a symptom of cervical cancer. Doctors examine the cervix for speculative examinations and smears if they have not done so in the last three years. Testing is recommended.”

This is unusual and just in case.

If everything is normal and symptoms persist on a smear test, your doctor should refer you to a specialist for colposcopy (extended cervical exam) and ultrasound to rule out intrauterine problems such as uterine polyps and fibroids. says Dr. Pizzal.

But then again, the post-sex spot can be normal, and it’s usually not jittery.

However, if you are concerned, it is advisable to consult your doctor or local sexual health clinic. Doctors can provide further advice, schedule tests, and prescribe treatments when possible.

Finally, Dr. Kandy adds, “Starting at age 25, be sure to resume smear testing to lower your chances of developing cervical cancer.”

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