Post-coital bleeding is defined as bleeding or bloody discharge occurring after intercourse, at a time separate from menstruation. The only exception is after first intercourse, when some bleeding may occur following break-down of the hymen. It is a condition experienced by 0.7–9% of women during their lives. There are a number of causes of post-coital bleeding ranging from ectropion to gynaecological malignancy. It is the role of the GP to identify and assess women with this symptom, referring patients for further gynaecological assessment where appropriate.
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