Bleeding during intercourse, known as postcoital bleeding, can be caused by various factors. Common reasons include vaginal dryness or insufficient lubrication causing friction and small tears; infections or inflammation of the cervix (cervicitis) or vaginal walls; cervical polyps or cervical ectropion (fragile cells on the cervix surface); trauma or injury to vaginal tissues; hormonal factors such as birth control use or menopause; and in rarer cases, precancerous or cancerous conditions of the cervix, vagina, or uterus. Sometimes, bleeding may also occur from rough sex or inadequate foreplay causing tissue irritation.
If bleeding is recurrent, heavy, or accompanied by other symptoms like pain or unusual discharge, it is important to seek evaluation from a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
