Picture this: You and your partner are finally getting in some sexy time (or you’re having a solo session) when all of a sudden, you feel an intense pain that can only be described as a stabbing feeling up inside your vagina. What gives? You don’t have your period, you’re not ovulating, and you don’t typically have pain during sex. Turns out, it’s quite possible that some rough sex caused you to bruise your cervix—the narrow, lower part of the uterus.
A “bruised cervix” refers to an injury to that part of your reproductive system, though the name itself isn’t entirely accurate. “When you think of a bruise, you see this visible, bluish mark after some kind of hit or trauma,” says Dr. Rebecca Keith, a board-certified OB/GYN with Pediatrix Medical Group in Elizabethtown, Kentucky. “The cervix doesn’t necessarily bruise, but it can become irritated, which can cause pain.”
According to Dr. Keith, this type of injury is pretty rare; in fact, she’s never actually seen one in her 30 years of medical practice. However, she knows cervix irritation can be uncomfortable—causing cramping and sharp pelvic, abdominal, or lower back pain that can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days.
Not sure if this has happened to you? Read on to find out the possible causes and ways to treat a bruised cervix if you find yourself in pain after a particularly rough romp in the sack.
How does a bruised cervix happen?
Virtually all cervical bruises happen from penetrative sex. “Because the cervix sits deep inside the vagina, it’s generally pretty well protected,” Dr. Keith says. But certain positions or hard thrusting could cause a penis or another object to penetrate deeper than usual and potentially hit the bottom of the cervix. “Since the cervix has nerve endings, it’ll send out a signal of sharp pain or discomfort,” explains Dr. Keith.
Who’s more at risk for cervix bruising?
Again, cervix injuries are pretty rare. However, certain factors can make them more likely, including:
- Deep penetrative positions: The doggy-style position is the most likely offender. Missionary with your legs up or reverse cowgirl can be pretty deep as well.
- Anatomical differences: About 25 percent of people with a uterus have a retroverted uterus, which means it is tipped backward. This positioning could make it easier for penetration to hit the cervix.
- Uterine prolapse: This occurs when pelvic floor muscles weaken, leading the uterus and cervix to slip down into the vagina, which can make injuries more likely during sex.
- Cervix infection: Infections can make the cervix more sensitive, increasing the risk for painful sex.
- Lack of arousal: Entering penetrative sex before full arousal can increase the odds of injury.
Is treatment necessary for a bruised cervix?
Thankfully, treatment is often not necessary. “This is something that usually goes away in a day or two on its own,” Dr. Keith says. However, if your injury stems from an underlying issue, addressing it will help make sex more comfortable and avoid future injuries.
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If you notice cervix pain during sex, it’s best to stop right away and refrain from certain sexual activities until your symptoms have subsided. Avoid inserting anything else in your vagina, and focus on pelvic rest, which Dr. Keith emphasizes as the most powerful treatment.
3 tips to prevent a bruised cervix
If you’ve had a bruised cervix in the past, here are some prevention tips from Dr. Keith:
- Switch up your sex positions: Opt for positions that avoid deep penetration, such as missionary with lowered legs or lying side-to-side.
- Save plenty of time for foreplay: Allow yourself ample time to become fully aroused to avoid irritation or dryness.
- Address underlying conditions: If you often experience pain during sex or other symptoms, consult with a healthcare provider.
When to see a healthcare provider
If you experience mild pelvic or cervix pain during sex, it’s likely not a concern, especially if it subsides quickly. However, if pain persists, is frequent, or is accompanied by bleeding, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider for thorough evaluation.
FAQ
Can a bruised cervix affect fertility?
A bruised cervix itself won’t impact fertility. However, underlying issues like cervicitis could affect your ability to get pregnant if left untreated.
What are the signs of a damaged cervix?
Signs might include sharp pelvic pain or discomfort that typically lasts from a few minutes to a couple of days, generally resolving with pelvic rest.
Should I be worried about a bruised cervix?
There’s no need to worry about a bruised cervix since it’s quite rare. However, address any ongoing pain with your healthcare provider, as other conditions might need attention.
