Differential Diagnosis for Bleeding after Sex after Period
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Cervicitis: This is an inflammation of the cervix and can be caused by infection, often resulting in bleeding after sexual intercourse. The timing after a period could be related to hormonal changes or the introduction of bacteria during sex.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Vaginal dryness or atrophy: Especially in postmenopausal women or those with hormonal imbalances, vaginal dryness can lead to bleeding after sex due to the lack of lubrication and elasticity.
- Cervical polyps: These are growths on the cervix that can cause bleeding, especially after sex or between periods.
- Endometrial hyperplasia: A condition where the lining of the uterus grows too thick, which can lead to irregular bleeding, including after sex.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Cervical cancer: Although less common, cervical cancer can cause bleeding after sex. It's crucial to rule out this diagnosis with appropriate screening and testing.
- Endometrial cancer: Similar to cervical cancer, endometrial cancer can cause irregular bleeding, including post-coital bleeding, and must be considered in the differential diagnosis.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): An infection of the female reproductive organs that can cause bleeding, among other symptoms, and requires prompt treatment to prevent long-term complications.
- Rare diagnoses
- Uterine sarcoma: A rare type of cancer that begins in the muscle and supporting tissues of the uterine walls, which could potentially cause bleeding after sex.
- Vaginal cancer: A rare type of cancer that can cause bleeding, including after sexual intercourse.
- Blood clotting disorders: Certain conditions that affect blood clotting can lead to easy bruising and bleeding, potentially resulting in bleeding after sex.