Bleeding during menstruation

Bleeding during menstruation is usually a normal physiological phenomenon, but it may also be related to cervical lesions, vaginal damage and other factors. The endometrium sloughs off and bleeds during menstruation, and sexual intercourse stimulation may increase the amount of bleeding or prolong the menstrual period. If the amount of bleeding increases abnormally, is accompanied by severe pain, or persists for more than 3 days without relief, you need to be alert to pathological factors.

During menstruation, the cervix is ​​open, and mechanical friction during intercourse may accelerate endometrial peeling and cause temporary increased bleeding. At this time, the bleeding color is mostly dark red or bright red, mixed with mucus-like secretions, and usually stops on its own within 1-2 days. In some women, endometrial repair is delayed due to fluctuations in hormone levels, and bleeding after intercourse may continue until the end of the menstrual cycle. This situation does not require special treatment. It is recommended to keep the vulva clean, avoid using tampons, and choose sanitary napkins with good breathability.

Abnormal bleeding should consider the possibility of cervical columnar epithelial migration, cervical polyps and other lesions. Intercourse contact may cause damage to the fragile tissue on the surface of the cervix, manifesting as contact bleeding. The blood is bright red and does not mix with menstrual blood. Vaginal wall damage is often caused by insufficient lubrication and is common in menopausal women or users of emergency contraceptive pills. The bleeding is spot-like and accompanied by a burning sensation. In patients with endometriosis, sexual intercourse during menstruation may induce pelvic congestion, causing reflux of menstrual blood and aggravating dysmenorrhea symptoms. If non-menstrual intercourse bleeding or bloody discharge occurs repeatedly, a gynecological examination should be performed to rule out cervical precancerous lesions.

Bathing and swimming should be avoided during the menstrual period, and the vulva should be washed with warm water 1-2 times a day. Vaginal douching is prohibited. If fever, odorous discharge, or bloating in the lower abdomen occurs after intercourse, prophylactic antibiotics such as cefaclor dispersible tablets, metronidazole vaginal effervescent tablets, etc. are required. It is recommended to resume sexual life after 3 days of completely clean menstruation. People with long-term intercourse bleeding need to undergo HPV testing and cervical cytology screening. Daily iron-containing foods such as animal liver, spinach, etc. can be supplemented to prevent anemia, and adequate sleep should be maintained during menstrual period when immunity is reduced.