"Why Does Bleeding Occur After Sexual Intercourse?"
Bleeding after sexual intercourse is a type of sexual bleeding with numerous potential causes. While some instances may be disease-related, excessive intensity during sexual activity can also trigger such bleeding. Occasional bleeding is generally not alarming, but if it recurs frequently within a short period, medical examination is crucial to determine the underlying cause. Let's delve into the reasons behind bleeding after sexual intercourse:
1. Cervicitis (Erosion)
Ninety percent of married women experience cervicitis, which is categorized into mild, moderate, and severe types based on the extent of cervical erosion. During sexual activity, friction between the male's penis and the cervix can cause damage and bleeding in those with moderate to severe cervical erosion. Due to the minimal bleeding, it accumulates in the vagina, causing a color change from fresh to old blood. As a result, when expelled the following day, it appears dark red.
2. Cervical Polyps
Long-term irritation from chronic inflammation can lead to the development of cervical polyps, small, pedunculated growths on the cervix resembling bean sprouts in appearance and varying in size. These polyps are fragile and prone to bleeding upon contact, resulting in bright red bleeding after sexual intercourse.
3. Cervical Cancer
Bleeding after sexual intercourse is an early indicator of cervical cancer. The cancerous lesion, containing delicate tissue and numerous small blood vessels, can rupture and bleed during sexual activity due to injury. As the cancer advances, the risk of bleeding increases.
4. Endometriosis
In some cases, endometriosis can manifest in the cervix as blue-purple nodules. Contact with these ectopic nodules during sexual intercourse can cause minimal, dark red bleeding, sometimes accompanied by post-coital abdominal pain.
5. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Inflammation in the pelvic region can lead to congestion. While rare, if the endometrium becomes congested and swollen, it may bleed after sexual intercourse.