Bleeding during or after sex, also known as postcoital bleeding, can be caused by various factors. Here are some of the most common causes of bleeding during or after sex:

• Cervical inflammation or cervicitis: This can be ongoing and harmless, or it can happen due to a sexually transmitted infection like chlamydia or gonorrhea.

• Cervical polyps: These are usually small growths that appear on the opening of the cervix. Most are not cancerous, and your doctor can remove them during an appointment.

• Vaginal dryness: This can happen when there isnt enough natural lubrication in the vagina, which can cause irritation and bleeding during sex.

• Infection: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia and gonorrhea can infect the cervix, causing it to bleed more readily.

• Genital sores: These can result from STIs like genital herpes.

• Cervical or endometrial polyps: These are benign or non-cancerous growths in the womb or the lining of the cervix.

• Cervical ectropion: This is also known as cervical erosion, where there is an inflamed area on the surface of the cervix.

• Cervical or vaginal cancer: In rare instances, bleeding after sex can be a sign of cervical or vaginal cancer.

If you experience vaginal bleeding after sex, its important to seek advice from a GP or a sexual health clinic. They can assess your symptoms and advise you if any treatment is needed. Depending on any other symptoms and your medical history, a GP may recommend some tests or examinations, such as a pelvic examination or looking at the cervix with an instrument called a speculum.