Bleeding After Being Fingered: Why It Happens And When To Worry
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Medically reviewed by Priya Patel, MD — Written by Kimberly Holland — Updated on July 3, 2025- Causes
- Medical care
- Prevention
- Takeaway
Spotting after penetration may be a sign of small scratches or tears. In some cases, bleeding may be related to an infection or other underlying condition.
Fingering can be a fun and relatively safe sexual activity. It rarely causes any issues. However, from time to time, you may experience minor bleeding afterward.
Common causes
Dryness
Lack of lubrication inside the vaginal canal and around the vaginal opening can increase your risk of injury. Decreased lubrication may be related to your menstrual cycle, hormonal birth control, or a lack of arousal.
Injury
The skin in and around your vagina is delicate. Any amount of force or pressure can cause a tear. Sharp fingernails can also scratch the inside of the vaginal canal.
Stretched hymen
The hymen is a thin tissue that surrounds the vaginal opening. It may stretch or tear while you’re being fingered, especially if it’s your first time experiencing vaginal penetration of any kind.
Infection
In some cases, bleeding is a sign of underlying irritation and inflammation of the vulva, vagina, or cervix. Vaginitis and cervicitis are often related to an infection, such as:
- bacterial vaginosis (BV)
- chlamydia
- gonorrhea
- trichomoniasis
- yeast infection
When to consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional
Most bleeding will clear up on its own within a few hours or days. Consider making an appointment with a healthcare professional if bleeding persists or is accompanied by other symptoms. This includes:
- chunky or thick discharge
- gray, green, or yellow discharge
- fishy or otherwise foul odor
- pain that interferes with your ability to function
You may need medication to help the scratch or tear heal and reduce your risk of an infection. Likewise, it’s a good idea to avoid vaginal penetration for a week after any bleeding occurs. This way, the vaginal canal has time to heal.
How to prevent bleeding after getting fingered
Clean hands and nails are a must for any solo or partner penetrative play. Wearing a disposable glove or using finger cots can also prevent the spread of bacteria.
Some people find it helpful to file or trim their nails the day before a planned sexual encounter. If you want to preserve your nail length, you might find it helpful to use a barrier method with cotton balls over and under the tips.
Using a quality lubricant can have a huge impact on your overall pleasure. Lube reduces unwanted friction, reducing your risk of injury.
Remember, you can stop at any time. If you’re experiencing pain or other discomfort, tell your partner. It’s important to communicate what feels good and what doesn’t.
The bottom line
Spotting or light bleeding after being fingered isn’t usually cause for concern. It generally resolves on its own without medical treatment. However, if your symptoms are severe, consider making an appointment with a healthcare professional.
How we reviewed this article:
SourcesHistoryHealthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.- My vagina bled while my boyfriend was fingering me, and a few days after. Should I be worried? (2020).https://www.plannedparenthood.org/blog/my-vagina-bled-while-my-boyfriend-was-fingering-me-and-a-few-days-after-should-i-be-worried
- What is fingering? Is it safe? (2024).https://www.plannedparenthood.org/blog/is-fingering-safe
- Vaginal bleeding between periods or after sex. (2024).https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaginal-bleeding-between-periods-or-after-sex/
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