After my fiance and I make love, I start to bleed. The bleeding does not last for very long -- only a few hours, and then it stops. I was wondering if you have any ideas what might cause this.

--Richelle

Bleeding after intercourse (postcoital bleeding, in doctor talk) can occur for several reasons. Infection is one of the most common. Anything from a yeast infection to a sexually transmitted disease, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, can irritate the cervix to the point where trauma from sex can lead to bleeding. polyps of the cervix (small projections of tissue) may also bleed. Abnormal cervical cells, including cancer, are also more easily irritated and may bleed with intercourse. Women who use an IUD or diaphragm may experience bleeding from irritation and friction.Sometimes the bleeding is not from the cervix, but rather from a tear in the vagina; tears can happen with vigorous sex or if you are dry.

You need to see a gynecologist. The exam should include a Pap smear for abnormal cervical cells, unless you have had the test within the last couple of months. Infections need to be ruled out by examination and culture. Polyps can be detected and removed. If a tear is found, usually lubricants or changes in style of intercourse will be recommended. In any case, you must not ignore bleeding after intercourse, especially if it happens repeatedly.