Do STIs cause bleeding from the genitals?

Bleeding from the genitals can be a deeply concerning and alarming symptom.

While many things can cause bleeding from the genitals, you may want to consider the possibility of a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

Certain STIs can lead to bleeding, whether it’s between periods, during or after intercourse, or from other parts of the body. Understanding which sexually transmitted infections can cause this symptom and recognising the importance of early detection and treatment is crucial for maintaining sexual health.

This blog aims to illuminate which STIs can cause bleeding, the mechanisms behind this symptom, and the importance of seeking medical advice if you experience any unusual bleeding. By increasing awareness, we hope to encourage proactive health measures and reduce the stigma associated with STIs.

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Common STIs that cause genital bleeding

Some common STIs can cause bleeding, especially from the genitals.

You should note that while both men and women can experience bleeding from the genitals in response to a sexually transmitted disease, women are more likely to experience vaginal bleeding as a symptom, if their menstrual cycle becomes altered or if something inside starts bleeding.

Gonorrhoea

Gonorrhoea, also known as “the clap,” is an STI caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, oral sex, and sharing sex toys. Symptoms may include a burning sensation when urinating, unusual discharge (urethral in men, vaginal in women), and in women, abnormal vaginal bleeding. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health issues like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), abdominal pain, infertility, and pregnancy complications.

In women: Gonorrhoea can cause inflammation in the reproductive tract, leading to symptoms such as painful urination and unusual vaginal discharge. Bleeding may occur between periods or after sexual intercourse due to the infection causing irritation and inflammation of the cervix.

In men: Men with Gonorrhoea may experience painful urination and discharge from the penis. In some rare cases, the inflammation can cause bleeding, which may result in blood in the urine (hematuria) or blood stains from the urethra. Blood stained rectal mucus is common in both sexes if Gonorrhoea was caught during anal sex.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It can infect various regions of the body, including the penis, vagina, anus, and throat. Often referred to as a “silent” STI, many people with Chlamydia show no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can include painful urination, unusual discharge, and other symptoms.

In women: When symptoms do appear in women, they can include bleeding between periods and after sexual intercourse. This bleeding is typically due to inflammation and infection of the cervix.

In men: While Chlamydia is often asymptomatic in men as well, it can cause symptoms like painful urination and discharge from the penis. In some cases, it can also lead to bleeding, particularly if the infection causes inflammation in the urethra.

Blood stained rectal mucus is common in both sexes if Chlamydia is causing a rectal infection.

An extremely uncommon variant of Chlamydia is called lymphogranuloma venereum (or LGV). In the western world, this is almost always seen as a rectal infection and blood staining is common.

Mycoplasma

Mycoplasma is a type of bacteria that can infect the genitals, urinary tracts, rectum, and lungs. Mycoplasma genitalium is a sexually transmitted infection that often goes unnoticed due to its asymptomatic nature. When symptoms do appear, they can include unusual discharge, pain during urination, and bleeding after intercourse or between periods in women.

In women: Mycoplasma infections can lead to symptoms such as abnormal vaginal discharge, lower pelvic pain, and pain during intercourse. Bleeding may occur after intercourse or between menstrual periods due to inflammation of the cervix and other parts of the reproductive system.

In men: Men with Mycoplasma infections may experience painful urination, discharge from the urethra, and irritation or pain in the penis. Inflammation caused by the infection can sometimes result in bleeding from the urethra.

Again, if the infection is rectal there may well be blood staining present on the toilet paper.

Ureaplasma

Ureaplasma is a bacterium that lives naturally in the respiratory, urinary, and reproductive tracts. It can be transmitted through sexual contact, but often appears on its own as a result of an imbalance in the natural flora in the vagina. Symptoms may include pain during urination, unusual discharge, and inflammation of the urethra.

In women: Ureaplasma can cause inflammation of the urethra, pain during urination, and unusual, watery vaginal discharge. Bleeding may occur due to irritation and inflammation around the vagina, but this is very rare.

In men: Men with Ureaplasma infections may experience inflammation of the urethra, pain during urination, and unusual discharge from the penis. This inflammation can sometimes cause bleeding from the urethra, but this is also extremely rare.

Herpes

Herpes is caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) and can lead to painful blisters around the genital area. During an outbreak of Herpes, these superficial blisters pop and form sores, which can bleed, especially if they are picked at or the skin around them becomes inflamed. Eventually, these sores scab over and heal.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

HPV is a common viral infection that can lead to Genital Warts and, in some cases, cervical cancer.

Certain high-risk strains of HPV can cause changes in the cervical cells, leading to abnormal bleeding, particularly after sexual intercourse. Regular screening and early detection are crucial for managing HPV-related complications.

Some warts in the genital area may sheer off during penetrative sex or cleaning the genitals, and may therefore cause blood spotting.

Final thoughts

Understanding the various STIs that can cause bleeding, whether from the genitals or other parts of the body, is crucial for early detection and effective treatment. Bleeding can be a distressing symptom, but recognising its potential link to STIs can prompt timely medical intervention and prevent further complications.

Consider using Better2Know’s home testing kits to ensure your peace of mind. Our Full Screen test checks for seven different STIs, providing you with comprehensive information about your sexual health. Take control of your health today and order your Full Screen STI test kit from Better2Know.