Cancerbackup: Q-490

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Alison

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I have had breast cancer and have been taking tamoxifen for 2 years. Recently I've had vaginal bleeding after sexual intercourse. Is this normal or should I see my doctor?

Vaginal bleeding after intercourse is not normal and if it occurs on more than a couple of occasions you should certainly see your doctor for advice. Taking tamoxifen can cause thinning and dryness of the lining of the vagina which may lead to some bleeding after intercourse. Also some women who taking tamoxifen may develop changes in the lining of the womb (the uterus) which may also lead to vaginal bleeding. However the great majority of women taking tamoxifen will not develop this problem and as there are many different causes for vaginal bleeding after intercourse you should seek medical help.


Content last reviewed: 14 April 2004
Page last modified: 27 May 2003

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