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Image by Anthony Tran

PAIN WITH SEX

When pain occurs during or after sex, it can take a toll on your sexuality, mental health and relationships, which can greatly impact your quality of life.

Many treatments are available to address the various issues that can lead to this pain.

What are some causes of pain with sex?

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There are several common causes of pain with sex, including:

  • Vaginal dryness: Lack of lubrication during sex can cause friction, leading to pain and discomfort.

  • Vaginismus or pelvic muscle spasm: This is a condition where the vaginal muscles contract involuntarily, making penetration difficult or impossible, and causing pain.

  • Endometriosis: This is a condition where the tissue lining the uterus grows outside of it, causing pain during sex and other symptoms.

  • Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): This is an infection of the reproductive organs, which can cause pain and discomfort during sex.

  • Vulvodynia: This is a chronic pain condition that affects the vulva, causing pain during sex and other activities.

  • Menopause or cancer treatment: The decline in estrogen levels during menopause can cause vaginal dryness and thinning, leading to pain and discomfort during sex.

  • Sexual trauma: Past experiences of sexual trauma can cause physical and emotional pain during sex.

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How can pain with sex affect your life?

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Experiencing pain during sex, a condition known as dyspareunia, can have a significant impact on a person's life and relationships. Here are some ways it can affect them:

  • Physical discomfort: Pain during sex can be physically uncomfortable and even unbearable, which can cause a woman to avoid sex altogether. This can lead to a loss of sexual intimacy and strain the relationship.

  • Emotional distress: Experiencing pain during sex can be emotionally distressing, leading to feelings of shame, guilt, and anxiety. It can also cause a woman to feel less desirable and attractive, leading to a decrease in self-esteem.

  • Sexual dysfunction: Chronic pain during sex can lead to sexual dysfunction, causing difficulty achieving orgasm or even loss of sexual desire altogether.

  • Relationship strain: Painful sex can cause strain in a woman's relationship, especially if her partner does not understand the condition or feels rejected by her avoidance of sexual intimacy.

  • Mental health issues: Chronic pain during sex can cause depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.

 

 

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