She Strengthens

Uncomfortable Intimacy: Uncovering the Causes of Painful Sex

Are you experiencing sharp pain during sex? You’re not alone. Painful sex, also known as dyspareunia, affects millions of people worldwide. In the United States, 10 to 20 percent of people with vaginas report discomfort during intercourse. The good news is that there are many potential causes and solutions to this issue.

Understanding Painful Sex

Painful sex can occur during, before, or after intercourse, and its severity varies from person to person. It’s essential to educate yourself about the possible causes and consult with a doctor to find relief.

10 Common Causes of Painful Sex

1. Burning and Itching with Discharge
   Possible causes: Yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis (BV), or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia, gonorrhea, or trichomoniasis. Solutions: Consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment, which may include antifungal medication, antibiotics, or switching to polyisoprene or polyurethane condoms.

2. Pelvic Pain during Penetration
   Possible causes: Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), an infection of the reproductive organs. Solutions: See a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment, which may include antibiotics.

3. Pain that Goes Away when Switching Positions
   Possible causes: Cervix poking or position-related discomfort. Solutions: Experiment with different positions to find comfort.

4. Vaginal Dryness and Sandpaper Feeling
   Possible causes: Vaginal dryness, often associated with menopause, but also caused by birth control pills, antihistamines, or decongestants. Solutions: Use lubricants, consider long-acting vaginal moisturizers, or consult a doctor about alternative medications.

5. Sharp, Localized Pain on the Outside of the Vagina
   Possible causes: Ingrown hair or Bartholin’s cyst. Solutions: Keep the area clean, apply warm compresses, and consult a doctor if the issue persists.

6. Deep Pelvic Throbbing and Cramping
   Possible causes: Endometriosis or uterine fibroids. Solutions: Consult a doctor about treatment options, which may include surgery or hormonal medication.

7. Vaginal Clamping during Penetration
   Possible causes: Vaginismus, a condition characterized by involuntary pelvic floor muscle spasms. Solutions: Consider psychotherapy, pelvic floor physical therapy, or consult a doctor about treatment options.

8. Stabbing Pain on the Vulva
   Possible causes: Vulvodynia, a condition with unknown causes. Solutions: Consult a doctor about treatment options, which may include medication, local analgesics, physical therapy, or surgery.

9. Inability to Insert Anything into the Vagina
   Possible causes: Imperforate hymen or septate hymen. Solutions: Consult a doctor about minor surgery (hymenectomy) to remove the hymen.

10. Pelvic Pain during Sex and Urge to Urinate
    Possible causes: Interstitial cystitis, a chronic condition causing painful pressure on the bladder. Solutions: Consult a doctor about dietary changes, medications, and pelvic physical therapy to find relief.

Seeking Help and Finding Relief

If you’re experiencing painful sex, don’t hesitate to consult a trusted OB-GYN. By understanding the potential causes and seeking medical attention, you can find relief and enjoy pain-free intimacy. Your health and well-being are worth it.