Pain During Sex? This Might be the Cause

Another day, another painful sexual experience. If pain and sex are synonymous for you there is definitely a problem. Although persistent pain during or after sexual penetration is common among women, it isn’t normal.

Dyspareunia is a medical condition that can, and should, be treated. The first step in this journey is finding the root cause of the pain. Once the causes have been narrowed down, the condition can be successfully treated, bringing exciting, enjoyable sex back into your life.

• Irritations or Infections: An itchy, inflamed, irritated vulva or vaginal canal isn’t exactly a place any woman wants a penis. Chlamydia, gonorrhea or genital herpes are some of the sexually transmitted infections that can cause those issues. Yet, some vaginal infections can be asymptomatic. Whatever the STI, it can definitely make sex unappealing and painful. There are also non-STI skin issues such as eczema that can cause pain. If you’re dealing with any of those issues, schedule an appointment with your OB/GYN to find out what’s going on.
• Vaginismus: This condition causes an involuntary contraction of the vaginal and pelvic floor muscles. When the muscles are tensed up, the entry of the penis can cause severe pain. The root cause of vaginismus varies. Sometimes it’s caused by physical issues, other times by psychological, such as stress or anxiety about sex, or a combination of both. Patients may need to see both a therapist or psychiatrist and a physician to tackle this condition.
• Chronic Conditions: Endometriosis or uterine fibroids are common issues that can cause severe pelvic pain. Treatment for both of these conditions can vary from minimally invasive procedures such as a myomectomy or endometrial ablation to more invasive surgery such as a full hysterectomy.
• Dry as the Desert: Women need foreplay, a lot of it, to get the juices flowing. Experts say it takes a woman about 20 minutes to reach an arousal point. And as women age, or hit menopause, dryness can even be more of a factor. So make sure your partner and you engage in an ample amount of foreplay before penetration. Still a little dry? Add in some lube and it should be all fun from there.

Is sex a painful experience for you? Contact Dr. Ghozland at 310.299.7143 to discuss possible treatment options.