Painful Intercourse

Painful intercourse, referred to as dyspareunia, is most often reported by women although it occurs in men as well. Like other sexual problems, such as lack of sexual desire or erectile dysfunction, painful sex can place undue stress on a person or relationship.

It is important, however, to keep in mind that these sexual problems are not uncommon. Most of us, at some point in our sex lives, will encounter some form of sexual problem.

Painful sex may also be the result of psychological factors, such as negative experiences and emotions concerning sex and sexuality that interfere with arousal.

In women, deep pain may be felt in the upper vagina or superficial pain may be felt around the vaginal entrance.

Determining the source of the pain and/or receiving treatment through counseling or therapy can almost always bring relief. Talk to your physician if you are experiencing pain during sex, and if necessary ask for a referral to a sex therapist or behavioural specialist. Just don’t suffer in silence!

Painful sex in women can be caused by:

• Painful scars in the vaginal entrance, possibly from an episiotomy or sexual assault;
• A functional disorder called vaginismus in which the vaginal muscles involuntarily contract due to the subconscious memory of a past episode of painful intercourse;
• Infections, allergic reactions to spermicides, latex in condoms or diaphragms, thinning of the vaginal wall which occurs with age, or a scarring of the vaginal roof which occasionally occurs after hysterectomy;
• Pelvic problems - pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), endometriosis, possibly tumors or cysts;
• Inadequate lubrication resulting from hormonal changes during menopause or pregnancy, or when you are not sufficiently aroused.

Painful sex in men can be caused by:

• Adhesions under the foreskin of those who are uncircumcised;
• An allergic reaction to latex condoms or spermicides;
• Prostate problems that cause pain on ejaculation;
• Peyronie’s disease, or other inflammations or scarring of the penis or internal male reproductive organs.