Dyspareunia
Why does sex hurt?
Painful sex is a taboo topic that affects many individuals however often goes unaddressed.
In this blog post, I will discuss dyspareunia, a condition characterised by painful intercourse before, during or after penetration. I will explore its causes and various treatment options available. I can not emphasise enough how important it is to seek help and finding relief.
What is dyspareunia?
Dyspareunia is a common condition that refers to the experience of pain during sexual intercourse.
The pain can occur before, during or after penetration, and it may vary in intensity and duration. It is important to note that painful sex is abnormal and should not be ignored.
Dyspareunia can have multiple causes, both physical and psychological. Some common factors contributing to this condition include:
1. Hypertonic pelvic floor muscles
2. Insufficient foreplay leading to inadequate arousal and lubrication.
3. Hormonal changes affecting vaginal tissues
4. Skin infections in the genital area
5. Past surgeries that may have resulted in scar tissue or post episiotomy
6. Conditions like vulvodynia, which causes chronic pain in the vulva
7. Vaginismus
8. Endometriosis or adenomyosis
9. Conflict within the partnership or relationship
10. Anxiety, stress or other psychological factors
11. Negative or painful associations and thoughts related to penetration
What are the treatment options for dyspareunia?
Treating dyspareunia often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Some options involve assessing and treating pelvic floor dysfunction, manual therapy/massage, down training, relaxation exercises, prescription of tailored exercises, dilator or pelvic wand therapy, hormonal treatment and referral to a sexologist or psychologist.
In conclusion:
The bottom line is that sex should not cause pain. Dyspareunia is a treatable condition, and no one should suffer in silence. Seeking professional help from passionate and supportive pelvic
floor physiotherapists can lead to significant improvement and the restoration of pain-free enjoyable sexual experiences.
Painful sex, known as dyspareunia, can significantly impact your wellbeing and relationships. It is important to understand the causes and treatment options available for this condition.
Remember you don’t have to endure dyspareunia alone, help is available.
At Inner Active Pelvic Health, our dedicated physiotherapists are experienced in treating dyspareunia and have achieved great success in helping patients regain pain-free and enjoyable intimacy.
Written by
Melis Abdulovski is a Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist at Inner Active Pelvic Health and Physiotherapy with a real passion helping women to achieve pain free intimacy.
References
Continence Foundation of Australia
DISCLAIMER This is general information only. For specific advice about your healthcare needs, you should seek advice from your health professional. Inner Active Pelvic Health and Physiotherapy does not accept any responsibility for loss or damage arising from your reliance on this blog, see a qualified a health professional.
