Have you ever had rough or rowdy – but enjoyable – sex and felt a throbbing pain that radiated throughout your pelvis afterward? Doesn’t sound too sexy, does it?
Technically a sex injury, having a bruised cervix isn’t desirable. The cervix may feel tender or sensitive after a penis, sex toy, or another object has continuously bumped and, therefore, “bruised” the cervix during deep penetration.
A bruised cervix can also be caused by reasons outside of intercourse, like endometriosis, vaginal dryness, ovarian cysts, vaginismus, yeast infection, or previous injuries.
The pain is often felt deep in the body, and can also be accompanied by spotting, nausea, back pain, and bleeding.
It’s important to note that the cervix isn’t actually bruised. There is no discoloring like what we see on the skin outside of the body, this term is used to describe the pain.
What Is the Cervix?
The cervix, sometimes called a “lady donut,” connects the vagina to the uterus and pushes sperm through the canal into the uterus. In Latin, cervix uteri means “the womb’s neck,” because of this connection. It’s also what pushes menstrual blood out. If you’re pregnant, the cervix builds up a mucus plug which prevents bacteria and infections from entering the uterus, protecting your baby.
The cervix sits at the top of the vaginal canal, is around 1 ½ centimeters, and is shaped like a donut. Since the cervix is close to the vaginal opening, it’s easy for it to get “bruised”, especially for women whose cervix sits closer to their vagina.
Your cervix also changes position depending on your cycle or hormonal changes. Right before ovulation, it tilts downward and becomes softer and moist. This may increase the chances of having a bruised cervix.
Moreover, when you’re aroused, your vagina grows, and there is more room for penetration and more separation between the penis and cervix. If you’re less aroused, your vagina may not be as long, and there may be a shorter vaginal canal.
How To Check Your Cervix
- Since the cervix changes during arousal and sex, check its position before having sex.
- Wash your hands thoroughly to prevent any unnecessary bacteria. If you have longer nails, trim them or wear body-safe plastic gloves.
- Get into a comfortable position. Maybe that’s lying down in bed, crouching down, or in the shower.
- Use the finger you’re most comfortable with, although the middle finger is the longest and may be the best in this situation. The vaginal canal is anywhere from 3 to 7 inches.
- Slowly push your finger until you touch your cervix, which will feel harder and firmer than the rest of your vagina. If you feel a dimple, your cervix is open.
- Remember to breathe! And don’t continue if you feel any pain or discomfort.
Bruised Cervix Treatment
Time is your best friend when healing a bruised cervix. Healing from the pain is different for everyone, but it requires patience and rest. Relief can range from a few hours to a few days. The pain should be gone within a week.
A bruised cervix does not require much treatment from a healthcare professional. Ibuprofen or naproxen can help with pain relief and any throbbing. Applying a heating pad to your back or abdomen can also be helpful. Wear loose clothing, massage your abdomen, or sit on a pillow to alleviate any pressure. Avoid sex until the pain is completely gone since intercourse may make the pain worse or prolong healing.
Bruise Cervix Prevention
Although getting a bruised cervix can happen in any sex position, doggy style is a more common culprit that leads to pain after sex.
Try less deep positions, like cowgirl, reverse cowgirl, spooning, lotus, or standing.
Communicate with your partner if sex is too aggressive or if certain positions make it worse. Make sure you’re entirely aroused before having sex as well to ensure there isn’t any tearing. If you aren’t aroused, prioritize foreplay or use a vibrator before intercourse to allow your vagina time to elongate.
Once you’re ready for penetration, implement lots of lube to decrease friction.
Pregnancy can also make someone more susceptible to cervical bruising since the uterus expands during pregnancy and the cervix changes position. As the baby grows, pressure on the cervix can cause further bruising and pain. Visit your doctor or talk with your midwife about dealing with discomfort and ways to alleviate any pain during pregnancy.
Consider seeing a doctor for a bruised cervix if:
- Your pain lasts longer than a week.
- You have blood clots in your underwear.
- You’re bleeding through a pad or tampon every hour.
- You were sexually abused.
- You’re pregnant.
- The pain occurs without sex.
Overall, a bruised cervix usually doesn’t require a visit to the doctor. All you need is rest from penetration, a discussion with your partner about alternative positions or gentler sex, and a nice, warm bath.
