What causes of painful sex?
There can be several reasons why pain may occur in relation to sexual activity. These may include;
- Lack of arousal – resulting in lack of vaginal lubrication and engorgement of the genitalia.
- Post-menopausal changes – resulting in thinning of the vaginal lining, with reduced lubrication.
- Endometriosis – the complications arising from the location of endometrial tissue outside of the uterus.
- Infections – which can be sexually transmitted infections (STI's) or non-sexually transmitted genital infections (NSI's).
- Vaginismus – involuntary spasm of pelvic floor muscles.
- Allergic reactions – to the material of some condoms, spermicide or contraceptive creams, and devices used for contraception or sex play.
Pain which occurs during penetrative sex, is experienced by as many as 15% of women. The general term used to describe this pain is dyspareunia. It can be caused gentle contact with the genitalia or with deeper penetration. The degree of pain experienced can range from the uncomfortable to the distressing. Occasionally it is severe enough to prevent any penetration.
Pain occurring suddenly is called acute and can happen for many reasons. In women, specifically, these can include spontaneous abortion, ectopic pregnancy, ovarian cysts or ovarian torsion.
If abdominal pain is severe or is accompanied by high fever, confusion or other significant changes in health or behaviour, you should contact your doctor or go directly to the Accident and Emergency Department of your local hospital.
Chronic pain (long-term) is associated with conditions which are longer lasting, such as untreated pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or Endometriosis.
If you experience pain during sexual activities speak to your doctor or staff at a sexual health clinic who will able to give you some advice. Occasionally women may experience pain with no physical explanation. In these circumstances you may be referred to a counsellor or therapist.
