🩺 Affordable Private Healthcare

Postcoital Bleeding

Price
From £175

Turnaround

Varies

Appointment

30 - 60 minutes

4.9
Rated 4.9 out of 5
4.7
Rated 4.7 out of 5
Care Quality Commission
Primary Care & Diagnostics Finalist Award

at a glance

pound iconPrice: From £175

Turnaround: Varies

Appointment: 30 – 60 minutes

4.9
Rated 4.9 out of 5
4.7
Rated 4.7 out of 5
Care Quality Commission
Primary Care & Diagnostics Finalist Award

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 experience bleeding after sex and you are not on your period, it is important to get checked to identify the cause. Since 1998, our clinics have helped improve the health and wellbeing of many, thanks to our team of highly qualified professionals dedicated to helping our patients feel better.

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 screening, pregnancy testing, or imaging studies. Our clinics offer transparent pricing for all services (unless clearly indicated otherwise), so you can focus on getting better without any unexpected costs.

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 appointment by giving us a call.

Choose your appointment

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

meet with our experts

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 one of our London-based healthcare providers 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

The results of your tests will be discussed with you. Depending on the findings, further treatment or monitoring may be recommended.

Why Choose Walk In Clinic For
Your Private GP?

Incorporated
in 1998

Experienced doctors & a professional team

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confidential

Experienced doctors & a professional team

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health care

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No hidden charges, phlebotomy fees or prescription charges.
Test prices do not include a consultation.

Postcoital Bleeding

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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.
Can postcoital bleeding be a sign of cancer?
Yes, although it is less common. Persistent or recurrent postcoital bleeding, particularly in women over the age of 30 or those with known risk factors, can sometimes be a sign of cervical or vaginal cancer. Even if it is often caused by more benign conditions, any instance of postcoital bleeding should be evaluated promptly by a healthcare professional to rule out serious underlying issues.

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