Is bleeding after intercourse caused by cervical cancer?
Disease description:
I've recently experienced bleeding after intercourse with my husband, which has been troubling and frightening. I looked it up online and saw that it might be cervical cancer. My husband suggests going to the hospital for a check-up. Could post-coital bleeding be caused by cervical cancer?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhao Xiaodong
Bleeding after intercourse is not necessarily a sign of cervical cancer. Vaginal bleeding can be related to various factors and often falls under contact bleeding. Many women with cervical inflammation, cervical polyps, or uterine fibroids may experience contact bleeding during intercourse due to penile stimulation of the cervix. This is considered normal and generally not a cause for excessive concern. It could also be ovulation-related bleeding; many women experience light bleeding during ovulation due to hormonal fluctuations causing slight shedding of the endometrium. Other gynecological conditions, such as cervical cancer or other malignant tumors, are also possible causes. If irregular bleeding occurs frequently and is accompanied by abdominal pain, it is advisable to promptly visit a hospital for HPV and TCT testing to determine the underlying condition.
