Post-coital bleeding (PCB) is non-menstrual bleeding that occurs immediately after sexual intercourse.
It can be quite alarming and warrants further assessment
It occurs in up to 1 in 12 women and quite often co-exists with heavy periods.
In younger women the likelihood of infection is high and risk of cancer is extremely low.
In the older women approaching the menopause it can occur in the presence of cervical and endometrial cancer.
1 in 220 women with post-coital bleeding are diagnosed with cervical cancer
In about 50% of women no cause is identified.
Cervicitis-.Cervical Infection caused by Chlamydia, Gonorrhea and trichomonas vaginalis
Vaginitis-This can be due to thrush, bacterial vaginosis and trichomonas infection or due to lack of estrogen after the menopause
Cervical ectropion/ectopy– is a common cause in young women on the combined oral contraceptive pill.
Polyps– skin tag like lesions that can arise on the cervix and the lining of the womb (endometrium)
Cancer- is a less frequent cause and can occur in the vagina, cervix and uterus.
Trauma-Can be a rare cause following sexual intercourse
A vaginal examination is performed to inspect the vaginal wall and cervix.
Pregnancy test
Swabs are obtained to screen for common infections
Cervical smear test, cervical biopsy and or referral for colposcopy
A trans-vaginal ultrasound scan may be indicated
Treatment will depend on the cause.
In about 50% of patients symptoms resolve spontaneously
Infective Cervicitis and Vaginitis are treated with appropriate antibiotics
Cervical ectropion /ectopy-may resolve spontaneously
It can be treated with silver nitrate or thermal cautery and diathermy
Discontinuing the combined oral contraceptive pill may also be helpful
Cervical polyps– are removed and sent for laboratory analysis.
Precancerous cervical abnormalities -Require removal of the abnormal cells by loop diathermy
Cervical cancer – Surgery, radiotherapy and or chemotherapy at a cancer centre
Further discussion during the consultation will depend on your individual circumstance.
