Painful Intercourse

 Dyspareunia is painful sexual intercourse in women.  It can cause a lot of discomfort for women physically and may affect them emotionally as well.  This may be a short term issue or persist for a long period of time.  It may occur just before, during, or after intercourse.  It may affect any kind of vaginal stimulation or penetration.  The specific location and severity of the pain may vary greatly. Women with dyspareunia may experience pain during penetration, pain with intimate touching or pain when experiencing orgasm.

 

Causes of Painful Intercourse

Pain during intercourse may be a result of various conditions that may include but not be limited to:

● Injury to the pelvic region

● Inflammation

● Hormone imbalances

● Skin disorders affecting vaginal area

● Menopause

● Certain medical conditions

● Medications that diminish sexual desire or change sensation

● Lack of lubrication

● Psychological factors including anxiety or depression

● Infections in the pelvic area

● Being post partum

● Ovarian cysts

 

Diagnosis of Painful Intercourse

To diagnose the source or cause of painful intercourse, a provider will review the woman’s past medical history and a thorough pelvic exam is  performed to detect possible skin irritation, infection, or any vaginal abnormalities. Patients may be referred to a gynecologist for more extensive workup.  Some patients may require further testing such as a laparoscopy to more closely view internal structures of the reproductive system. Blood tests, diagnostic imaging studies  may also be performed to help evaluate the causes for painful intercourse.

 

Treatment for Painful Intercourse

Painful intercourse that is caused by an underlying medical condition, such as an infection, skin disorder or disease, can usually be treated by addressing the associated condition and supportive care. Other treatment options may include somecombination of the following:

● Adjusting current medications

● Hormone supplementations if there is an imbalance

● Use of vaginal lubricants

● Kegel exercises

● Anti-inflammatory medications

● Evaluation by sex therapist may be beneficial if there are any contributing emotional factors