Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding: Check Your Symptoms

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When to See a Doctor

Do you have vaginal bleeding after intercourse or douching?

See significance of bleeding after intercourse or douching if you need information to help you answer the questions below.

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.

Call your health professional immediately if you answer "Yes" to the following question.

Yes

Do you have severe vaginal bleeding, but you do not have signs of shock?

Call your health professional today if you answer "Yes" to the following question.

Yes

Do you have moderate vaginal bleeding, but you do not have signs of shock?

You may wait to see if the symptoms improve over the next 24 hours (or specified time period) if you answer "Yes" to the following question.

Yes

Have you had minimal vaginal bleeding for 48 hours after intercourse or douching, and you are sure that the bleeding is not caused by your menstrual period?

You need an appointment within the next 1 to 2 weeks if you answer "Yes" to the following question.

Yes

Have you had minimal vaginal bleeding or spotting more than one time after intercourse or douching, and you are sure that the bleeding is not caused by your menstrual period?

If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.

Last updated:	July 11, 2007
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer