Vaginal bleeding or spotting that occurs after intercourse is known as postcoital bleeding. Bleeding after sex can occur as a result of menstruation, vaginal dryness, inflammation, infection or problems with the cervix. In most cases, it is not a serious problem, but bleeding after sex can sometimes signal more serious problems, especially if it happens constantly. Here are seven common causes of postcoital bleeding: Menstruation This may seem obvious, but before any doubts arise, it is necessary to check that it is not this time of the month. Intercourse just before or after menstruation can explain the bleeding. Tracking your cycle with a menstrual calendar is helpful in resolving such questions and understanding more about what happens during the menstrual cycle. Vaginal atrophy Also often called vaginal dryness, vaginal atrophy is a condition in which the lining of the vagina becomes drier and thinner, usually due to a lack of estrogen. Women of all age groups can suffer from vaginal atrophy, although the condition most commonly occurs after menopause. If the dryness is severe, friction during intercourse may cause bleeding. Using a lubricant during sex can help, but if estrogen is the problem, hormone replacement therapy in pill or cream form may be recommended to relieve dryness. Cervicitis Cervicitis is inflammation of the cervix, often as a result of infection or irritation. This condition can cause bleeding or a change in vaginal discharge. Possible causes include: Sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, or trichomoniasis. Bacterial vaginosis, or an imbalance of naturally occurring bacteria in the vagina. Although this is not a likely cause, sometimes secondary inflammation can cause bleeding after sex. Chemical irritation from spermicides, douches, or latex in condoms. Although the bacterial and viral infections that cause cervicitis are contagious, this condition can be treated with antibiotics or antifungals. Cervical ectropion In cervical ectropion, the soft glandular cells that line the inside of the cervical canal expand to the outside of the cervix (where the cells are usually harder), almost as if they are turning inside out. This is a normal condition for many women and usually does not require treatment. Cervical polyps These are growths on the opening of the cervix, which are sometimes the result of chronic inflammation or hormonal changes. Almost all cervical polyps are benign. If symptoms are minor, no treatment may be necessary. Sometimes, with irregular bleeding, there is a small chance of developing abnormal cells. After removal, the polyps are sent for histological evaluation. Uterine prolapse When the pelvic muscles, tissues and ligaments weaken,the uterus may fall into the vaginal canal, causing uterine prolapse. Symptoms of this condition include pelvic pain, abdominal pain or lower back pain, and discomfort during sex. If the uterine prolapse is severe enough, it can cause bleeding. For mild prolapse, he may recommend weight loss or Kegel exercises to strengthen the muscles in the area. In more severe cases, he may place a ring to support the tissue. Cervical cancer About 11% of women with cervical cancer have postcoital bleeding. In fact, it is often the first symptom of cancer and one of the things that causes the greatest concern for patients. Cervical cancer is preventable in most cases, as long as timely consultation with an obstetrician-gynecologist and subsequent routine screening is carried out. References: Wan YL, Edmondson RJ, Crosbie EJ. Intermenstrual and postcoital bleeding Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine