Bleeding After Intercourse: When to Seek Medical Attention?

Q: Bleeding After Intercourse: When to Seek Medical Attention?

Hello： If there is occasional bleeding, it is advisable to seek medical attention to expedite recovery. <br>If the bleeding point is visible, you can apply pressure with a gauze for a few minutes to stop the bleeding. <br>If it is not visible, medical evaluation is necessary to i

Bleeding after intercourse?

After having intercourse at night, I noticed bleeding.
I checked the area under the glans of my penis and found no damage to the frenulum (it was still intact).
Upon closer inspection, I saw blood flowing from the glans.
I searched online for information, worried it might be urethritis or something similar.
I was too tired and fell asleep during this time.
When I woke up the next morning, the bleeding had not stopped and was still flowing.
The amount of blood that stained my pants was significant (it had dried).
When I applied slight pressure, the bleeding decreased a little (which made me feel relieved enough to get out of bed), but after getting up, walking, and eating, it started to flow heavily again.
I'm very worried about whether it will stop on its own.
I initially thought I could just sleep it off and it would stop, but should I see a doctor? I'm really anxious for help.
When I have an erection or use the bathroom, there is a stinging sensation and slight pain.
I washed the area with clean water.
I mainly want to know if it will heal on its own or if I definitely need to see a doctor.

Xiao, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/10/05

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: If there is occasional bleeding, it is advisable to seek medical attention to expedite recovery.
If the bleeding point is visible, you can apply pressure with a gauze for a few minutes to stop the bleeding.
If it is not visible, medical evaluation is necessary to identify the source of the bleeding.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/10/05

More Info

Bleeding after intercourse can be concerning, and it's important to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical attention. Based on your description, it seems that you experienced significant bleeding from the glans (tip) of the penis, which has not stopped and has even increased in volume. This situation warrants careful consideration.

Firstly, bleeding after intercourse can occur for several reasons, including but not limited to:
1. Trauma or Injury: This could be due to friction or trauma during intercourse, which might cause small tears in the skin or mucous membranes.

2. Infections: Conditions such as urethritis (inflammation of the urethra) or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can lead to bleeding. Symptoms may include pain during urination or unusual discharge.

3. Vascular Issues: Sometimes, blood vessels can rupture due to increased pressure or trauma, leading to bleeding.

4. Other Medical Conditions: Conditions such as penile lesions, or even more serious issues like tumors or systemic bleeding disorders, could also be a factor.

Given that you mentioned the bleeding has not stopped and has increased, along with the presence of pain during urination, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Here are some reasons why:
- Persistent Bleeding: If bleeding continues for an extended period, it may indicate a more serious underlying issue that requires medical intervention. The body can sometimes stop minor bleeding on its own, but significant or persistent bleeding often needs professional evaluation.

- Pain and Discomfort: The presence of pain, especially if it is increasing, suggests that there may be an underlying issue that needs to be addressed. Pain can indicate inflammation, infection, or injury that requires treatment.

- Risk of Infection: If there is an open wound or injury, there is a risk of infection, which could complicate the situation further. Medical professionals can provide appropriate care, including cleaning the area and prescribing antibiotics if necessary.

- Evaluation of Underlying Conditions: A healthcare provider can perform a thorough examination, possibly including blood tests or imaging, to rule out any serious conditions that could be causing the bleeding.

In summary, while some minor bleeding may resolve on its own, the significant amount of blood you described, especially if it is persistent and accompanied by pain, indicates that you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. It is better to err on the side of caution when it comes to health concerns, especially those involving bleeding. A healthcare professional can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your specific situation.

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