Yes, Your Cervix Can Get "Bruised" — Here's What To Do About It

"It's all fun and games until someone gets hurt," the old saying goes—and yes, it applies to sex.

A bruised cervix is a condition where the cervix, the small canal between the vagina and the uterus, feels sensitive or tender. It can feel like intense pain around the pelvic or lower abdominal region, or it may feel like a dull ache or discomfort similar to cramps. It's typically caused by vigorous sexual activity.

"The cervix is like any other body part and can become bruised if it's hurt," functional medicine gynecologist Wendie Trubow, M.D., explains to mbg. "The most common cause of a bruised cervix is rough intercourse or rough play with vaginal toys."

Certain factors can make cervical pain more likely, according to OB/GYN Suzanne Gilberg-Lenz, M.D. "The position and consistency of the cervix changes throughout the menstrual cycle for menstruating women who are not on hormonal contraception," she notes. "It is higher up in the second half after ovulation, and lower during the week during and immediately following menstruation."

A bruised cervix typically resolves itself on its own and doesn't take that long to heal. Trubow says it can take a week or so to completely feel better, adding, "The vagina is a pretty forgiving organ, so it can heal relatively quickly."

Understanding your body—including where you're at in your menstrual cycle and whether you're aroused enough for penetration—is key for preventing cervical bruising going forward. For example, you may want to keep rough sex to a minimum during the times when your cervix is lower, such as during and after your period. It's also important to make sure you're fully aroused before vaginal intercourse, as the arousal makes your cervix lift in the vaginal canal, making it harder to hit.

In addition, Trubow suggests changing things up during sex is something isn't feeling good: "If intercourse is uncomfortable, I would recommend changing positions, increasing foreplay, and using a lubricant. Prevention is focused on avoiding the behavior that causes it." If you realize there's a position where your cervix is getting hit more, avoid it and switch things up.

"Sex—with another or self—is a mind-body experience," Gilberg-Lenz adds, "so understanding your physiology and honoring your body's response to stimulus are paramount in supporting pleasure."

Cervical pain is no fun, but it can be prevented. Understanding your body—including where you're at in your menstrual cycle and whether you're aroused enough for penetration—is key for preventing cervical bruising going forward. Tune into your body, know your limits, and don't be afraid to express them to your partner.