First-Time Sex and Unexpected Bleeding: What You Should Know

Question
I recently lost my virginity on Saturday and there was ample amounts of blood. Some blood got on the sheets and it was all over my boyfriend, as well as my thighs...let's just say it was pretty embarrassing. I am no where near starting my period, was over it for about five days prior to having sex, also I'm on birth control. I heard that your first time can result in a little blood, but as mentioned there was a lot. It also hurt, but it did not hurt that bad, we have been able to keep going had it not been for the blood. Also I am still spotting and I am wondering if that is normal? Should I see a doctor? Or is this all just a result of it being my first time? And if I have sex again will it bleed this much? Are there any ways to make it so that this doesn't happen again? Any help would really be great, thanks so much!

Answer
Hi Shannon,
It sounds like you bled a lot more than most women with first intercourse.  I suspect you must have had a blood vessel that broke, rather than small capillary bleeding.  As long as you give it time to heal, I doubt that you'll bleed next time, and if you do, it will be much less.  I don't think you need to see a doctor, unless this happens again.  If it does happen again, maybe there is something causing the bleeding other that tearing of the hymen.  But most likely you won't bleed at all next time, as long as you give it around 10 days to heal.  Best wishes.