Quick look at the bruised cervix symptoms:
- Pain during penetration
- Pain during intercourse
- Bleeding or pink-tinged vaginal discharge after intercourse
- Spotting
- Cramps leading to nausea
- Back pain
- Pelvic pain or discomfort
What is a bruised cervix?
If you feel discomfort or mild pain after sex, it could be caused by a bruised cervix. This is an occasional, non-life-threatening injury to the reproductive organ that some people might experience without realizing it. A bruised cervix is generally not a cause for concern and usually heals on its own with proper self-care.
The cervix is a narrow passage at the bottom of the uterus and the top of the vaginal canal. It is essential for fertility, pregnancy, and infection prevention. As a very sensitive organ, it can sometimes become injured.
A bruised cervix can feel different depending on the severity of vaginal bruising and an individual’s pain tolerance. Some women may experience painful cramps accompanied by sweating, nausea, and vomiting, while others might only notice mild discomfort or a dull, aching pain deep within. Sexual intercourse may also become more painful.
How does your cervix get bruised?
The most common way to get a bruised cervix is through rough or intense penetrative sexual activity. It can be caused by deep and forceful penetration.
A little discomfort after rough sex is normal. However, sex should always be enjoyable and consensual; you should never be made to do anything you do not want to do or that hurts you physically or emotionally.
What causes a bruised cervix?
The following list details the causes of a bruised cervix, or factors making the cervix sensitive and hence more prone to getting bruised, covering both sexual and nonsexual factors.
- Sexual penetration
- Complications from childbirth
- Previous surgery
- A past injury (e.g., from horseback riding or sports)
Some factors indirectly increasing the risk of a bruised cervix include:
- Endometriosis
- Vaginal dryness (causing increased friction)
- Cervical ectropion
- Vaginismus
- Cervicitis (inflammation of the cervix caused by STIs)
- UTIs or yeast infection making the cervix more senstive due to inflammation
- Pelvic floor disorders with associated muscle tension
Who is more prone to developing a bruised cervix?
Some people are more prone to a bruised cervix than others. Each person has a unique vaginal structure and a distinct position of the uterus. Typically, the distance from the vaginal opening to the cervix ranges from 3 to 7 inches. When aroused, the vagina expands to allow penetration. However, a larger penis or object may be more likely to cause cervical injury. Additionally, women with a shallower vagina might be at higher risk for this injury.
During ovulation, the cervix opens and softens to boost the chances of pregnancy. As a result of these changes, some women may be more prone to cervical bruising.
Women with a condition called cervical ectropion may be more prone to cervical bruising. Glandular cells are usually located on the inside of the cervix. Cervical ectropion occurs when these glandular cells are found on the outside of the cervix. These exposed, delicate glandular cells on the outside of the cervix are fragile and more prone to injury and bruising from friction.
What is the best treatment plan?
You usually do not need medical care for a bruised cervix, as minor irritation typically heals on its own within a few days. If this happens frequently with persistent pain and bleeding, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with a gynecologist. Your cervix might be sensitive and more prone to bruising due to an underlying infection. Additionally, spotting after sex could indicate cervical irritation or a fragile cervix.
Some at-home remedies a doctor might recommend include:
- You can reduce pain and discomfort by taking an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve). Menstrual pain relievers, such as Midol, may also provide relief.
- Sitting on a pillow or cushion until any vaginal tenderness goes away
- Using a heating pad or hot water bottle on your abdomen or back to relieve cramps
- Massaging your abdomen and back can help relieve tension; use lavender or clary sage essential oil for extra relief. (But do not insert or apply essential oils near the cervix or vagina)
- Wearing loose clothing to reduce pressure on your abdomen and avoid additional discomfort.
How can you prevent future cervical bruising?
If you had a bruised cervix before, here are some ways to avoid bruising in the future:
- Refrain from having sex until fully healed.
- Discuss with your partner what feels right for you.
- Select positions that offer better control and shallow penetration.
- Avoid sex at times of your cycle when your cervix feels more tender, such as before and after your period.
- Wait until you are more fully aroused before having sex. When you are sexually aroused, your vaginal canal lengthens and your cervix moves further away.
- Use lubricant during sexual activity.
Conclusion:
A damaged or irritated cervix is usually not serious, but it can be uncomfortable and upsetting. Most cases heal naturally within a few days with proper self-care, rest, and over-the-counter pain relief. However, persistent pain, bleeding, or discomfort should be checked by a gynecologist to rule out infections or other reproductive issues. Maintaining open communication with your partner, practicing gentle and consensual sex, and ensuring adequate lubrication can help reduce the risk of future cervical bruising. Focusing on your comfort and reproductive health helps support a faster recovery and overall well-being.
Frequently asked questions:
Is it possible to experience long-term complications?
A bruised cervix typically only causes temporary discomfort and does not lead to any serious complications.
How long does healing usually take?
Similar to other bumps and bruises, healing time varies among individuals. You can expect your pain to start diminishing within one to two days, and your symptoms should fully resolve within a week, but more significant trauma can take longer. To promote healing, avoid penetrative masturbation and sex until all symptoms have subsided, as penetration could worsen your injury and prolong recovery.
How to relieve pain and cramping caused by a bruised cervix
First, avoid penetrative sex for a few days if your cervix is bruised to allow healing. If you experience cramping or aching, an over-the-counter painkiller can help ease the discomfort. Using a heating pad or hot water bottle on your lower abdomen or back can help relax your muscles and increase blood flow. It may also be more comfortable to avoid sitting on hard surfaces and opt for a cushion or a soft surface, such as a sofa, instead.
Is it safe to have sex with a bruised cervix?
It is recommended to avoid intercourse until your symptoms heal. Having sex could cause more trauma and irritation, which might worsen the condition and extend the recovery time.
How are the cervix and the uterus connected?
Your cervix is a small canal linking your uterus and vagina. The uterus plays a vital role in menstruation, fertility, and pregnancy, and can be positioned differently in different individuals. About 80% of women have an anteverted uterus, which leans forward at the cervix and points towards the abdomen.
Your uterus can sometimes tilt backward, a condition known as a retroverted uterus. In this case, the uterus tilts towards your spine rather than forward into your abdomen.
