Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding

I am 37 years old and have had two vaginal births.  I've been on the birth control pill for a total of about 15 years.  The past two years I've had spotting during sex between cycles.  I've had a couple irregular paps but my doctor said to not worry about them.  January 06 I had a pelvic ultrasound which showed nothing.  This past week I had heavy red bleeding during sex without any pain.  I had a pap today and my doctor said my cervix bled very easily with the pap and ordered another pelvic ultrasound.  Is cervical cancer the only reason the cervix would bleed like this?

[Annekathryn Goodman, M.D.]

Dear Jill,
Bleeding after sex is not normal. It could be that you have an infection that is causing the irritation. Or you could have an irritation from something you use during sex such as a condom or diaphragm. Or it could be that you have a polyp. Yes, it is important to make sure the the bleeding is not from a malignancy. The bleeding could also be coming from some place in your vagina. It is important to have a careful pelvic examination. You may also need a biopsy of your cervix.
best wishes to you