Dyspareunia: otherwise known as painful sex: Learn what it is and what you can do about it.
Dyspareunia is a fancy word for painful sex. It’s not something people like to talk about, but it’s a real issue that affects many women (and some men too). According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, about 20% of women in the US experience dyspareunia at some point in their lives. In the UK, a survey published by the peer-reviewed British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology found around 1 in 13 women reported pain during sex.
Symptoms of dyspareunia can include pain or discomfort during vaginal penetration, pain in the vulva, or even pain in the lower abdomen. It can be a dull ache or a sharp pain occurring before, during, or after sex. It can also happen with any sexual activity, not just intercourse.
There are many things that can cause dyspareunia, including physical conditions like endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and vulvodynia. Certain medications and birth control can cause pain during sex. Emotional and psychological factors, such as anxiety or past sexual trauma, can also play a role.
If you’re experiencing painful sex, it’s important to seek help. Your healthcare provider can help you discover what’s causing the pain and how to treat it. Treatment options can include medication, physical therapy, or even counseling.
Don’t suffer in silence! If you’re experiencing pain with sex, talk to your healthcare provider, reach out to a Pelvic Care PT, and stay here to learn more about Dyspareunia. Watch, or listen to our Q&A with Dr. Lauryn Beecher PT, DPT, PRPC,founder of the Pelvic Health & Wellness Center, as she addresses a wide range of common concerns, including pain, incontinence, prolapse, and more.
Sources:
- Dyspareunia (Painful Intercourse), Cleveland Clinic
- What Causes Pain During Sex — and How Do You Treat It?, Right as Rain by University of Washington
- Painful intercourse (dyspareunia), Causes and Treatments, Mayo Clinic
Disclaimer: Pelvic issues are serious conditions and should be treated accordingly. Peli health’s attempt at making the tone funny is to lighten the mood and help the reader feel more relaxed when reading about this subject. We are not medical doctors. We do not diagnose illness. The information on this site is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. nor does it constitute providing medical advice or professional services. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition.
