What causes light bleeding after sexual intercourse?

Light bleeding after sexual intercourse may be caused by factors such as rupture of the hymen, excessive force, cervicitis, vaginitis, or cervical polyps. Management can be based on the specific situation. It is recommended to visit a hospital promptly and follow medical advice for treatment.

1. Rupture of the hymen: During the first sexual intercourse, rupture of the hymen may cause slight bleeding, usually accompanied by mild pain, which is a normal physiological phenomenon. The bleeding typically stops on its own and does not require special treatment. Maintain external genital hygiene to avoid infection and refrain from sexual activity for a short period.

2. Excessive force: Excessive force during sexual activity may injure the vaginal mucosa or cervix, causing bleeding. It is recommended that both partners communicate better, learn proper sexual techniques, and perform movements gently. If the injury causes minimal bleeding, observation may be sufficient along with maintaining external genital hygiene.

3. Cervicitis: Infection of the cervix by pathogens leads to inflammation, causing cervical tissue to become congested and fragile. Bleeding easily occurs after sexual stimulation, often accompanied by increased vaginal discharge and odor. Patients can use medications such as Baofukang suppository, Azithromycin tablets, or Kangongyan tablets under a doctor's guidance to alleviate symptoms.

4. Vaginitis: Bacterial, fungal, or other infections of the vagina cause vaginal mucosal congestion and edema, leading to bleeding after sexual friction. Symptoms include vaginal itching and changes in vaginal discharge. It is recommended to use medications such as Metronidazole suppository, Clotrimazole suppository, or Fluconazole capsules under a doctor's guidance to relieve discomfort. Maintain personal hygiene and change underwear regularly.

5. Cervical polyps: Chronic inflammation over a prolonged period causes localized mucosal hyperplasia in the cervical canal, forming polyps that are fragile in texture. These polyps may bleed easily upon contact during sexual activity and usually do not present with other obvious symptoms. Patients can take medications such as Yunnan Baiyao capsules, Gongxuening capsules, or Guizhi Fuling capsules under medical guidance to promote recovery.

Maintain good living habits, avoid strenuous exercise, be gentle during sexual activity, and engage in appropriate physical exercise regularly to promote overall health.

References:

[1] Zhang Jinglei, Xu Liuli, Ma Yuanyuan, et al. Development and validation of a visualization model for predicting the risk of recurrence after hysteroscopic removal of cervical polyps[J]. Medical Theory and Practice, 2024, 37(18): 3081-3085.

[2] Xie Mengying, Ge Weiwei. Ureaplasma urealyticum infection status and drug susceptibility analysis in patients with cervicitis[J]. Heilongjiang Medical Journal, 2025, 49(04): 469-471.