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By Mayo Clinic staffAlthough bleeding after vaginal sex may be a first indication of cervical cancer — and so should be evaluated by a doctor — it's more likely that the cause is another condition. Sometimes no cause can be determined, but it's still important to be evaluated to rule out cancer and other diseases. Possible causes of bleeding after vaginal sex include:
- Cervical cancer
- Cervical dysplasia: Is it cancer? (abnormal cells on the cervix that aren't cancer but may be precancerous)
- Cervical ectropion, a condition in which the cervical tissue is more susceptible to abrasion
- Cervical polyps
- Cervicitis (Inflammation of the cervix)
- Endometrial cancer
- Oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) (such as chlamydia or gonorrhea)
- Uterine fibroids
- Vaginal cancer
- Vaginal dryness (more common after menopause)
- Vaginitis
Causes shown here are commonly associated with this symptom. Work with your doctor or other health care professional for an accurate diagnosis.