Find Out: Bleeding After Masturbation?

Hello Aunt Vadge,

Recently I’ve started masturbating, and just a few days ago my period ended.

I masturbated again last night, and I noticed blood on my fingers when I finished. I’m not sure why this happened – and I’m concerned about it. Please help.

Sincerely,
Worried
Age 14, USA

______________

Hello there,

Firstly, it’s entirely normal to have questions and concerns when you notice something unexpected, like bleeding after masturbation. It’s great that you’re reaching out to understand what might happen.

There can be a few reasons why you might notice some blood after masturbating, especially shortly after your period has ended.

Here are a few possible explanations:

Residual menstrual blood
Sometimes, after your period seems to have finished, there can still be a small amount of blood left in the uterus that didn’t make it out. Masturbation, particularly if it involves penetration and orgasm, can dislodge this residual blood. This is the most likely scenario. When you masturbate next, you’ll notice whether it happens again.
Cervical changes
Sexual arousal and orgasm can cause physical changes in the cervix, which may lead to light spotting, especially if your period has recently ended. Cervical cells can be a little delicate.
Vaginal dryness or friction
If there wasn’t enough lubrication, the friction from masturbation could have caused some light spotting due to minor abrasions on the vaginal walls or on the cervix.
Hormonal fluctuations
Sometimes, the normal hormonal changes in your cycle can lead to breakthrough bleeding, though in your case, this seems unlikely.

If this is a one-off event and the bleeding is light, there is likely not much to worry about. However, if you notice it happening regularly, it’s more than just spotting, or you’re experiencing any discomfort or pain, it would be wise to make an appointment with your GP or gynaecologist to check things out.

In the meantime, ensure that you are gentle with yourself during masturbation and use a water-based lubricant if needed to reduce friction. Keep an eye on your menstrual cycle and any other symptoms you might experience, as these can be helpful pieces of information for a healthcare provider.

It’s important to be in tune with your body and not hesitate to seek medical advice when something doesn’t feel right. Take care, and do reach out if you need further guidance.

Warm regards,
Aunt Vadge

References^1–3

1.
Exton MS, Bindert A, Kruger T, Scheller F, Hartmann U, Schedlowski M. Cardiovascular and Endocrine Alterations After Masturbation-Induced Orgasm in Women. Psychosomatic Medicine. Published online 1999:280-289. doi:10.1097/00006842-199905000-00005
2.
Burri A, Carvalheira A. Masturbatory Behavior in a Population Sample of German Women. The Journal of Sexual Medicine. Published online May 30, 2019:963-974. doi:10.1016/j.jsxm.2019.04.015
3.
Woodard TL, Diamond MP. Physiologic measures of sexual function in women: a review. Fertility and Sterility. Published online July 2009:19-34. doi:10.1016/j.fertnstert.2008.04.041