Painful Sex – What Causes It? Symptoms & Treatment

Intimacy with a partner should be a pleasurable experience, and so if you experience pain instead, this can be a worry. Painful sex is not normal and there is usually an underlying reason why it is happening. Instead of putting up with the pain, it’s time to take control of your body and sex life and seek advice from your GP or gynecologist to regain your confidence. This article will discuss the causes of painful sex and what to do about it.

Why might sex be painful?

There are many reasons why sex might be painful, most of which are a result of an underlying health condition. Let’s take a look at some of the possible conditions that may cause pain during penetrative sex.

Exploring the various factors contributing to painful sex is crucial for understanding sexual well-being; additionally, individuals may find valuable insights into broader aspects of sexual health, such as the impact of the orgasm gap.

Vaginal yeast infections

Vaginal yeast infections of the vagina are incredibly common. So much so, that it is thought that 138 million women worldwide suffer from recurrent thrush and that around three-quarters of women will experience a yeast infection at some point in their lives. 

Yeast infections include candida and thrush, and they can occur for a wide variety of reasons, including as a result of taking antibiotics, being sensitive to candida, and having issues with the immune system.

Vaginal yeast infections make urinating very uncomfortable and it can feel like a burning sensation. The same can be said for having sex – it can be very painful and uncomfortable and the area can be swollen. Having sex can make it worse, and delay recovery. Your GP or gynaecologist will normally prescribe an antifungal medication which should be taken for a few days as advised. Alternatively, they may provide you with a single dose of medication.

Menopause hormonal changes

When women reach menopause (around age 50, but this varies between individuals) the amount of estrogen in the body is dramatically reduced. Oestrogen is really important for women because it is responsible for the elasticity of skin – this includes the skin inside the vagina. As a result of this, many women experience pain during sex because the skin inside the vagina is not only less elastic but also dryer than previously.

Usually, first-line treatments to help with this include moisturizers for inside the vagina and lubrication. Your GP or gynecologist may also suggest pelvic floor exercises. Hormonal treatments from experts at Fem Excel, or similar wellness facilities, can also help restore the levels of estrogen and other important sex hormones to relieve symptoms so that sex can be enjoyable again.

Vulvodynia

Vulvodynia is a condition that can cause challenges in relationships. Unfortunately, the exact cause of vulvodynia is unknown. It is classified as unexplained pain in the vulva area outside the vagina. Vulvodynia can feel like a burning or stinging sensation. It can make life very uncomfortable, not just sex. 

If you see your GP you will likely be referred to a gynecologist to confirm the diagnosis as they are specialists in this area. Your gynecologist will advise you of possible treatment options, which may include vaginal physiotherapy, gels, lubricants, painkillers, and even ultrasound therapy.

Vaginismus

Vaginismus is more common than many people realize. It is characterized by pain upon vaginal penetration – normally this is during sex but it can also happen when inserting a tampon or having a gynecological examination, like a smear test. 

The pain happens as a result of the muscles around the vagina contracting involuntarily. Someone with vaginismus has no control over the condition and it can occur even if you have previously enjoyed sex and have not had any issues or trauma in the past. That being said, it is often triggered by a traumatic event. The exact cause of vaginismus is unknown. 

Treatment typically involves a combination of talking therapy, pelvic floor exercises, and dilators. However, a newer, more progressive, and effective vaginismus treatment has come to light in recent years – the likes of Botox. Whilst this may sound like an unusual treatment, it is used to relax the muscles around the vaginal opening and with much success. Women who have suffered from this condition have found relief from it with this treatment after years of no luck.

Pelvic organ prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse happens when a pelvic organ like the bladder, bowel, or womb moves from its normal position as a result of the tissues and muscles around them being weak or damaged. Organ prolapse may feel like something is falling out of the vagina, a fullness or pressure in the pelvic area, a low backache, or pain in the lower back during intercourse. It often causes urinary and bowel problems. 

Pelvic organ prolapse becomes more common as you age. Women who have had children, and/or a long or difficult labor are at higher risk of prolapse. Treatment for this condition varies but may include a combination of pelvic floor exercises, vaginal pessaries (for mild cases), lifestyle changes, and even surgery. Your GP or gynecologist will advise you on the best course of action for your particular case.

Get help for painful sex today

If any part of your sex life is uncomfortable or painful, please do not just put up with it. The causes of painful sex can be one of these we discussed or it could be a combination of a couple of the reasons. Please seek help from a medical professional so you can regain confidence and begin to enjoy your sex life again.

Image Source: Freepik