Pain During Sex Is Not Normal? Causes Every Woman Should Know

Pain during sex is a problem that affects approximately 75% of women at some point in their lives. While this topic may be personal and sensitive, it impacts both a woman's physical health and mental well-being. If you start feeling uncomfortable before intimacy or are avoiding relationships due to fear of pain, it's best not to ignore it.

What is dyspareunia? Medical reasons for pain during sex

Pain during sex is medically known as dyspareunia. This condition can affect both men and women, but it's more common in women. Some women experience pain in the external area, i.e., the vulva, while others experience pain inside the vagina, in the pelvic floor, or lower abdomen.

The role of hormonal changes and vaginal dryness

During menopause and perimenopause, the body undergoes hormonal changes. The lack of estrogen during this time can cause the vaginal skin to become thin and dry. When natural lubrication is reduced, even light touch can feel uncomfortable. This increases friction during penetration and intercourse, leading to pain.

What diseases can cause pain during sex?

Certain medical conditions are directly linked to this problem. Problems like endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and uterine fibroids can cause severe pain during sex. Vaginal infections like bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections can also cause burning and pain. Sometimes, skin diseases of the vulva, such as lichen sclerosus, go undiagnosed, and the pain persists for a long time.

Sexually transmitted infections can also be a cause.

Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and other sexually transmitted diseases can also cause pain during sex. If you suspect an infection, delaying testing can worsen the problem.

Mental Stress and Emotional Factors

Pain during sex isn't just due to physical causes. Stress, anxiety, fear, or past traumatic experiences also affect the body's response. In some cases, this can lead to a condition called vaginismus, in which the pelvic floor muscles contract involuntarily. This can make penetration or even using a tampon extremely painful.

Pain after Injury, Delivery, or Surgery

Previous injuries, scars or nerve damage from childbirth, episiotomy, or pelvic surgery can also cause pain during sex. In these situations, the pelvic floor musclesstruggle to relax, making intercourse uncomfortable.

How is the diagnosis made?

A thorough pelvic examination is performed by a doctor to determine the underlying cause of the pain. This includes checking for infections, skin conditions, or other abnormalities. In some cases, lab tests or imaging tests may also be needed to rule out serious medical conditions.

How to Treat Pain During Sex

Treatment depends entirely on the cause of the pain. If the problem is related to hormonal changes, menopause hormone therapy or local vaginal estrogen may provide relief. In cases like endometriosis or fibroids, medications or surgery may be required. Pelvic floor physical therapy and the use of vaginal dilators also prove effective for many women.

Enduring pain is not the solution

Pain during sex is not a problem that should be tolerated silently. Proper diagnosis and treatment can not only relieve pain but also improve self-confidence and the quality of relationships. If the pain is identified early, in most cases, a woman can resume a normal and balanced sex life.