🩺 Affordable Private Healthcare

Postcoital Bleeding

Price
From £175

Turnaround

Varies

Appointment

30 - 60 minutes

Find Out More

4.8
4.8/5
4.7
4.7/5
Care Quality Commission
Primary Care & Diagnostics Finalist Award

pound iconPrice: From £175

Turnaround: Varies

Appointment: 30 – 60 minutes

Postcoital Bleeding Overview

As with all unusual symptoms, we recommend that you speak to our specialists, but it is especially important to do so if you experience bleeding during or after sex (postcoital bleeding). It is often nothing to worry about or is caused by an easily treatable condition, but in rare cases, it can be an indicator of cervical cancer.

If you notice bleeding after sex and you are not on your period, it is important to get checked to find the source.

What Causes Bleeding After Sex?

Postcoital bleeding can be caused by various factors, including sexually transmitted infections such as Chlamydia or Gonorrhoea, bacterial infections like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and tears from childbirth or inadequate lubrication during intercourse.

Hormonal changes, particularly reduced oestrogen levels in postmenopausal women, can lead to vaginal dryness (atrophy), resulting in thinning of vaginal tissue and increased susceptibility to vaginal tears.

Hormonal contraception may also cause irregular shedding of the uterine lining. Other potential causes include cervical polyps, cervical inflammation (cervical ectropion), shedding of the endometrial lining due to ovulation, and, rarely, cervical or vaginal cancer.

Symptoms

Postcoital bleeding can present with a variety of symptoms. These include light spotting or bleeding immediately after sexual intercourse, along with pink or red vaginal discharge. Some individuals may also experience slight discomfort or pain during intercourse.

Occasionally, bleeding may occur hours or days after intercourse. It is important to take note of any additional symptoms you may be experiencing, such as pelvic pain or unusual vaginal discharge, as they can provide valuable information to your healthcare provider.

Woman doctor smiling
Serious doctor with arms crossed

Evaluation & Diagnosis

A healthcare provider will typically perform a thorough evaluation, which may include:

  • Medical History: Discussing your symptoms, sexual history, menstrual cycle, and any relevant medical conditions.
  • Physical Examination: A pelvic exam to check for any abnormalities in the cervix, vagina, or uterus.
  • Tests: Depending on your symptoms and medical history, your healthcare provider may recommend tests such as a cervical smear, STI testing, pregnancy testing, or imaging studies.

Statistics​

of cervical cancer cases are preventable
0 %
women are affected by endometriosis
0 In 10
women are affected by PCOS
0 In 10
New cases of uterine cancer, 2016-2018, UK
0

Prevention Tips

While not all causes of postcoital bleeding can be prevented, you can reduce your risk by following these tips:

  • Practice Safe Sex: Use condoms consistently to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections.
  • Maintain Good Genital Hygiene: Wash the genital area with mild soap and water daily.
  • Use Lubrication: Especially if you experience vaginal dryness, use water-based lubricants during intercourse to reduce friction.
  • Attend Regular Gynecological Exams: Routine screenings and pelvic exams can help detect any abnormalities early on.

How To Book A Private Doctor Appointment?

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Use our online booking engine or book your test by giving us a call.

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On the online booking engine select the “appointment type” you need.

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You will be seen by one of our friendly doctors or trained clinicians.

The Procedure

preparing for appointment

Pre-Appointment

You might receive instructions from your healthcare provider about any specific preparations, such as whether to avoid intercourse or certain medications before the test. Be prepared to discuss your medical history, including details about your menstrual cycle, sexual history, and any symptoms you have been experiencing.

during the appointment

Appointment

The healthcare provider will likely conduct a physical exam, which may include a pelvic exam to check for abnormalities such as infections or structural issues. Tests may include a cervical smear, a colposcopy, transvaginal ultrasound, and even include a biopsy.

post appointment

Post-Appointment

Your healthcare provider will discuss the results of the tests with you. Depending on the findings, they may recommend further treatment or monitoring.

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fAQ

I have noticed bleeding after sex. Should I be worried?
In many cases, postcoital bleeding is nothing to worry about, but it can be the sign of something more serious, so it is always recommended that you see a doctor immediately if you notice bleeding after sex.
What are the causes of postcoital bleeding?
The most serious causes are cancer, STIs, and bacterial infections. More common causes are vaginal dryness, lack of sufficient lubrication during sex, or hormonal changes.
What diagnostic methods will be used?
Depending on your other symptoms, the doctor may give you an internal pelvic examination, examine your cervix with a speculum, or test for pregnancy.

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