If it is your first time having sex, it is quite normal to bleed a little. The first sexual experience stretches the hymen, which is a thin layer at the opening your vagina, which may cause pain and discomfort. You could use an herbal-infused pad to soak this blood and stay comfortable. The bleeding only occurs the first few times you have intercourse, after which there is usually no blood.

If you have been sexually active for a while and experience blood after an encounter, it may point towards an underlying condition. Most women who bleed after sex have a cervical condition like cervical polyps, which bleed upon the impact. It is also possible to bleed after sex if you weren’t lubricated enough, or if you have a vaginal ectropion. Most causes of post-coital bleeding are benign, but if the bleeding is severe or accompanied by pain, it is best to get it checked by a doctor as it may point towards a malignancy like cervical cancer.

If you are bleeding because of excess friction or a lack of lubrication, it may be a good idea to use an herb-infused liner to soothe the inflamed vagina.