Is it Normal to Bleed After Sex?

Is it normal to bleed after sex?

It can come as quite the unwelcome surprise: you roll off your partner, look down and see drops of blood on the sheets. You’re probably thinking about how to handle the laundry situation and more importantly: “Is it normal to bleed after sex?”

We’re here to tell you there’s nothing shameful, abnormal or (in most cases) anything to worry about when bleeding after sex.

Whether you’re a first-timer, with a new partner, or a certified Casanova, bleeding after sex can happen to anyone. In fact, it even affects up to 9% of all people who get a period. So, let’s dive into what causes bleeding and how to prevent it from happening.

We’ll cover:

What causes bleeding after sex
Preventing bleeding after sex
Bleeding after losing your virginity
When you should seek medical attention

What causes bleeding after sex?

When faced with this type of bleeding, your first question is probably: why am I bleeding after sex? Well, it can be caused by many different factors, from dryness to STI. Here are the most common causes of bleeding after sex:

A sexually transmitted infection
Tears caused by childbirth
Inflammation on the surface of the cervix
Vaginal dryness caused by menopause³
Non-cancerous polyps in the cervix or womb
Rare forms of cervical and vaginal cancer
Vaginal dryness

It’s very important that when you experience vaginal bleeding or spotting after sex, pain or no pain, you need to consult a medical professional. However, once assessed, take comfort in knowing that common conditions such as vaginal dryness or friction during sex can be combated through a series of simple (and fun!) measures.

What causes vaginal dryness during sex?

Finding the root causes of vaginal dryness can help you to enjoy sex more and to reduce the possibility of post-coital bleeding. Common causes of vaginal dryness can include a lack of arousal during sex, using perfumed soaps or douches in and around your vagina, or underlying medical conditions, such as going through menopause, breastfeeding, and taking contraceptive pills.

So, try cutting out the usage of scented soaps near your lower region and get your foreplay on! A lack of arousal can easily be treated on its own, making sex more comfortable and enjoyable in the future.

How to prevent bleeding after sex

You can help reduce the possibility of bleeding after sex by reducing dryness before intercourse. Using fun foreplay tips can help make sex more enjoyable, safer and healthier too.

Flirting, touching and kissing with your partner can get your juices flowing. Oh, and don’t forget about being fingered, receiving cunnilingus, watching porn or listening/reading erotic stories. Make sure to clearly communicate that a little stimulant is needed before you get into the penetrative business. Can’t wait to get things going? Use lube and get stuck in. Or treat your vagina kindly with specially-made moisturizers.

Is it normal to bleed after having sex for the first time?

We’ve all seen the clichés: a virgin leaving the bed and sheets that get left behind drenched in red. Bleeding like this is thought to occur when the hymen — a thin membrane located close to the vaginal opening — is stretched open through penetrative sex.

Bleeding can occur during first-time sex. The hymen can also get broken by:

A medical examination
Masturbation
Inserting tampons or other objects into the vagina

So, whether you bleed or don’t bleed after your first time, there’s usually no need to worry either way.

Like a virgin: discomfort after sex following a dry spell

Having sex after a dry spell can cause some discomfort, and it can even be quite painful. This can be due to your muscles not being used to having sex anymore.

For both first-timers and those dipping back into sexual intercourse for the first time in a long time, it’s important to take the necessary precautions. Take things as slowly as possible, use condoms and lube, and constantly communicate with your partner. You’re in this together, after all.

When should I seek medical attention for bleeding after sex

Keep an eye on things if you're bleeding after sex, especially when the bleeding is new, or when it doesn't stop within a few hours after intercourse. Don't shy away from consulting a medical specialist. Looking for a quick talk with an expert? Phone the NHS at 111; for urgent medical attention, call 999.

Conclusion

Sex should be enjoyable. Bleeding during sex shouldn’t be a regular event. In most cases, it should clear up quickly by taking good care of your vagina and the use of lubrication during sex. But stay vigilant and caring of your vulva.

FAQs

How long does bleeding after sex last?

Bleeding after sex can last for just a few seconds, or can persist for a few days depending on the cause. In case of any concern, please always contact your healthcare professional.

Can you bleed if your partner is too big?

Having sex with a partner who has a thick or long penis, can cause trauma to the opening and the back of the vagina - which may lead to some bleeding.