Why Am I Bleeding After Sex (With No Pain)? Here’s What Experts Had to Say

That said, Dr. Wilson says that if you are regularly bleeding after sex that pregnancy should be ruled out just in case.

So why do I bleed after sex?

Here are some of the most common causes for postcoital bleeding, according to the experts.

1. It’s been a while.

If it’s been a minute since you last had sex, the action can cause lacerations, or tiny tears, in your vaginal canal, Dr. Ross explains: “Even if you are adequately lubricated, tears of the vaginal opening can occur.”

The best way to prevent this is by making sure you have plenty of time to get aroused before any type of penetration—and to use lots of lube. The idea is to promote as much elasticity in the vagina as possible.

2. Deep penetration

Deep penetration, whether with a penis, a finger, or even your best vibrator, can occasionally cause slight trauma to the cervix, leading to some spotting after or during sex, according to Dr. Ross. “A larger or thicker object and a smaller vaginal opening can also create lacerations in the vagina,” she says.

If you notice that you’re bleeding pretty regularly after sex, even light bleeding, speak with your doctor. It may be helpful to try shallower sex positions, such as spooning or sitting face-to-face.

3. Vaginal dryness

Vaginal dryness, which is “often caused by inadequate foreplay or vaginal lubrication,” is one of the leading causes of vaginal tearing, pain during sex, and bleeding, says Dr. Ross.

The good news? It’s totally preventable. Be sure you’re super, super turned on before you have sex. (It helps if you have an orgasm before any penetration even occurs.) “If you are feeling very dry and delicate, stop,” says Rowett. “Slow down and use lube.”

I cannot stress my love for lube enough. Keep a vat of it next to your bed, have a tube in your purse, keep samples in every drawer in your apartment. Lube is the stuff dreams are made on. If you’re in a monogamous relationship and don’t use condoms (because you’ve both been tested for STIs), oil-based lubes like coconut oil are the bomb. But they’re not compatible with condoms or other latex-based contraceptions; if that’s what you use, stick to a water- or silicone-based lube.

4. Sexually transmitted infections

This isn’t the sexiest thing you’re going to hear today, but bleeding with sex can be a sign of an STI. Bleeding after intercourse is a symptom for everything from the herpes virus and chlamydia to cervical HPV. “Sexually transmitted infections like gonorrhea, chlamydia, or trichomonas can cause inflammation, leading to bleeding,” explains Dr. Wilson.