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Dyspareunia (Painful Intercourse) is the medical term for recurrent pain during or after sexual intercourse. This pain can occur anywhere in the genital area, including the vagina, vulva, penis, testicles, or lower abdomen. It can be sharp, burning, throbbing, or a dull ache and can vary in intensity. Painful intercourse can affect people of all genders and sexual orientations.
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The pain varies from mild to severe; also, depending on the cause, an individual's experiences of the pain can differ. In case of persistent or severe pain, don't hesitate to get in touch with your healthcare provider and do not self-diagnose. You may experience pain:
In the genital area, including the vulva, vagina, urethra, or bladder.
When engaging in physical activity or intimacy.
Before, during, or after sexual activity.
In the lower abdomen or pelvic region.
Even after experiencing non-painful intimacy.
Depending on the situation or partner.
While using menstrual products.
Accompanied by discomfort, irritation, or soreness.
As sharp, intense pain, similar to strong menstrual cramps.
Consult our gynaecology hospital if you are experiencing pain during intercourse.
Occasional soreness or discomfort/pain during intercourse is common, but we shouldn’t be treating it as a normal condition. In case you experience persistent pain during intercourse, there might be some medical condition underneath that you are not aware of. A few of the major and most common physical causes of painful intercourse are:
Vaginal Atrophy: Vaginal atrophy, also known as atrophic vaginitis, is a common condition affecting many women as they age, particularly during and after menopause. It occurs when the vagina thins, dries and becomes inflamed due to a decrease in oestrogen levels.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Millions of people contract sexually transmitted infections (STIs) each year, with some like chlamydia and gonorrhoea causing vaginal irritation and painful sex.
Vaginal Infections: It's common to experience vaginal discomfort like irritation, discharge, and tenderness. This can be related to vaginitis, which occurs when the natural balance of yeast and bacteria in the vagina is disrupted, sometimes due to yeast overgrowth.
Vaginitis, or Inflammation of the vagina
Previous Injuries
Intercourse too soon after Surgery or Childbirth
Foreskin Damage
Penis Deformities or Peyronie’s Disease
Painful Erection
Radiation and Chemotherapy
Fibroids: The non-cancerous cells when grown in the uterus, cause heavy menstrual bleeding, and pelvic pressure, and might result in painful intercourse.
Along with all the physical attributes, several psychological factors contribute to the causes of painful intercourse:
Stress, which can result in tightened muscles of the pelvic floor
Fear, guilt, or shame related to sex
Self-image or body issues
Medications such as birth control pills
Relationship problems
Conditions such as cancer, arthritis, diabetes, and thyroid disease
History of sexual abuse
Many women (around 75%, as reported by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists) experience pain during sex at some point. Painful sex isn't normal and there are options for help.
It's important to find the root cause of pain during sex. Your healthcare provider can help by discussing your health history and conducting a compassionate physical examination that might involve checking your pelvic area, abdomen, and reproductive organs.
Physical Examination: A crucial first step is a thorough consideration of your medical and sexual history is mandatory. During a physical examination for dyspareunia treatment, your healthcare provider might ask you;
When and where do you experience discomfort?
Which activities or positions are associated with the discomfort?
Are there other activities or situations where you feel similar pain or discomfort?
Would your partner be interested in collaborating to find solutions?
Are there any other health concerns that you think might be contributing to the situation?
A thorough pelvic examination is common to find out the root cause. Following a pap test, you might undergo an ultrasound, urine test, or allergy test to understand the pain caused because of some injury, yeast infection, or something else.
Tailoring treatment begins with identifying and addressing the root causes of pain during intercourse. Medical professionals explore factors such as infections, hormonal imbalances, and pelvic floor disorders before curating a treatment plan
Medications
Physical Therapy
Hormone Therapy
Lubricants and Moisturisers
Surgical Interventions - In certain cases, surgical procedures may be considered, especially when structural abnormalities contribute to pain. These interventions are typically explored after thorough evaluation and discussion with healthcare professionals.
Sexual Counselling
Vaginal Dilators
Education and Communication - Knowledge about anatomy, sexual response, and effective communication is essential. Healthcare providers often offer education to empower individuals and couples in addressing concerns related to painful intercourse.
Continuous follow-up care is crucial to monitor progress, adjust treatment plans, and address any new concerns that may arise. Individuals are encouraged to communicate openly with their gynaecologists for ongoing support.
If you experience minor or secondary symptoms of dyspareunia, it may be because of a lack of lubrication. If you wish to try some home remedies to avoid the pain, there are some things you can try before intercourse.
Water-soluble lubricants are good.
Initiate sex when both you and your partner are relaxed and rested
Open communication with your partner and build intimacy
Emptied bladder before intercourse
Take a shower in lukewarm water
Experiencing pain during sex, also known as dyspareunia, can be frustrating and concerning. It's important to remember that you're not alone and help is available. If you're experiencing dyspareunia, the best course of action is to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and personalised treatment plan. They can help identify the underlying cause and recommend effective solutions that are safe and right for you.
Painful intercourse is discomfort or pain during any stage of sexual activity. While prevalence varies, it's estimated that a significant number of individuals, both women and men, experience it at some point in their lives.
Psychological factors like stress, anxiety, and past trauma can contribute to pain during intercourse. Counselling and therapy are valuable components of comprehensive treatment.
Yes, lifestyle modifications such as relaxation techniques, communication strategies, and using lubricants can aid in alleviating discomfort. However, professional guidance remains essential.
It is always advisable to open up to your healthcare honestly regarding the symptoms and experiences you might be facing. In this specific situation, you as your doctor;
Where do you feel the pain?
How intense is the pain?
If the pain is associated with any other symptoms, like a particular odour or bleeding associated.
What can you do to naturally reduce the pain?
What are the treatment options available for the situation?
Open communication is key. Couples can benefit from discussing concerns openly, seeking professional guidance, and exploring ways to support each other emotionally.
