This is non-menstrual bleeding that occurs immediately after sexual intercourse. It is usually caused by lesions of the cervix or the vagina. It is important that every woman who notices persistent bleeding after intercourse be assessed by a gynecologist.

In the majority of cases, IMB or PCB are not due to cancer and are most likely due to ectropion, polyps, or infection. However, because IMB & PCB may be early warning signs of cancer of the lower female genital tract, further assessment by a gynecologist is warranted. Have you had your pap smear recently? Book an appointment today!

Intermenstrual Bleeding (IMB)

This condition is defined as vaginal bleeding at any time during the menstrual cycle other than during normal menstruation. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to differentiate between intermenstrual bleeding and irregular periods. If you are experiencing bleeding between your menses, you should be seen by a gynecologist.

Causes Of IMB

  • 1-2% of women spot around ovulation

  • Hormonal fluctuation

  • Vaginal – cancer or inflammation

  • Cervical – sexually transmitted disease, cancer, polyps, ectropion, or warts;

  • Uterine – fibroids, endometrial polyps, cancer, adenomyosis, or endometriosis

  • Oestrogen – secreting ovarian cancer

  • Iatrogenic – due to hormonal treatment

Postcoital Bleeding (PCB)

This is non-menstrual bleeding that occurs immediately after sexual intercourse. It is usually caused by lesions of the cervix or the vagina. It is important that every woman who notices persistent bleeding after intercourse be assessed by a gynecologist.

Causes Of PCB

  • Infection

  • Cervical Ectropion, especially amongst women taking the combined oral contraceptive pill (COCP)

  • Cervical or vaginal cancer

  • Cervical or endometrial polyps

  • Trauma

In the majority of cases, IMB or PCB are not due to cancer and are most likely due to ectropion, polyps, or infection. However, because IMB & PCB may be early warning signs of cancer of the lower female genital tract, further assessment by a gynecologist is warranted. Have you had your pap smear recently? Book an appointment today