Sex should be fun. Unfortunately, it gets painful for some women. Does this ring a bell with you? If yes, read this blog to understand the possible reasons and get actionable solutions.

What Causes Pain During Intercourse for Women?

Painful intercourse, also known as dyspareunia, can arise from various factors, as mentioned below.

• Endometriosis: Oh, the woes of misplaced tissue! Endometriosis, a condition where the tissue outlining the uterus grows outside of it, can wreak havoc on your sex life. The abnormal tissue can cause pain during intercourse, turning what should be a pleasurable rendezvous into a tyranny of discomfort.

• Insufficient Lubrication: Lack of enough lubrication during sexual activity can be a major buzzkill for pleasurable experiences. Whether it's due to hormonal changes, medications, or simply not getting enough foreplay, a lack of moisture can cause discomfort and dryness.

• Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: Your pelvic floor muscles, the unsung heroes holding everything together down there, can sometimes go rogue. Weakness or tension in these muscles, often caused by childbirth, age, or even chronic stress, can lead to discomfort or pain during penetration. Think of it as your body's way of saying, “Sorry, no entry allowed!”

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Imagine your pelvis throwing a wild party, but the uninvited guests are nasty bacteria. Pelvic inflammatory disease crashes the party with inflammation and infection in the reproductive organs, resulting in deep pain during sex. It's like having party crashers who bring nothing but trouble and soreness.

• Psychological Factors: The mind is a powerful force that can make or break your bedroom adventures. Stress, anxiety, past trauma, or even negative experiences can dampen your pleasure receptors. Your brain might just hit the panic button, sending pain signals where there shouldn't be any. It's like having an overprotective bouncer at the door, denying entry to all the fun.

• Vaginal Infections: Vaginal infections like bacterial vaginosis or candidiasis can turn your nether regions into a fiery inferno. These unwelcome visitors can bring itching, burning, and pain to your private parts, making intercourse about as unpleasant as a sandpaper massage.

• Vaginismus: Sometimes, your vagina decides to go into lockdown mode, and it's not about to grant access to anyone or anything. Vaginismus is the condition where the vaginal muscles involuntarily contract during penetration, creating a painful and impenetrable barrier. It's like the Fort Knox of the nether regions, complete with armed resistance, making you experience sharp pain during intercourse.

How Common Is Painful Sex For Females?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists states that nearly 3 out of 4 women experience pain during sex at some point in their lives. For some women, it is a temporary issue; for others, it is a chronic or long-term problem.

What To Do When Intercourse Is Painful?

Follow these tips to relieve vaginal pain during intercourse.

• Communication is Key: Talk it Out. Communication regarding sex is non-negotiable for a healthy sex life. Talk honestly and openly with your partner about any discomfort or pain you experience during intercourse. Sharing your concerns can help both of you find ways to make the experience more enjoyable and pain-free. Remember! Good communication leads to great connections, in and out of the bedroom!

• Let The Lube Slip 'n Slide: Minimal or no lubrication can turn your intimate moments into a friction-filled fiasco. Don't be shy to introduce some lube into the equation. It's like having your own personal pleasure-enhancing magic wand. Whether you opt for silicone- or water-based, a little dab can reduce discomfort and maximize pleasure.

• Take it Slow: Slow and steady wins the pleasure! Rushing into things can increase the likelihood of pain during sex. So, take your time, enjoy the journey, and let the anticipation build. Consider it a slow-motion movie where every moment is savored, and pleasure is the ultimate prize.

• Foreplay Frenzy: Foreplay is like a pre-game warm-up that gets athletes ready for action. Therefore, a long foreplay can do wonders for reducing pain during intercourse. Think of it as the opening act that sets the stage for a great performance. Engage in passionate kissing, sensual touch, and explore each other's erogenous zones. Let the excitement build and watch how pleasure takes center stage while pain takes a backseat.

• Change Positions: Experiment with different angles and movements to find positions that are more comfortable for you. Get creative, try new things, and don't be afraid to mix it up. There's a position out there for everyone – find the one that makes you say, “Ahhh, that's the spot!”

• Breathe and Relax: Sometimes, tension and anxiety exacerbate coital pain. So, take a deep breath, and relax those muscles before embracing the Zen of pleasure. Incorporate relaxation techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, or even a soothing massage before getting down to business. A calm body leads to a more blissful experience!

• Get techy with mobile health apps like Ginger-U, which are specifically designed to help you track and manage pain during sex. Tracking enables you to understand trends and discover remedial strategies, including tips like this blog. Download the app now and consider health coaching by our expert women coaches to start your journey to better sex!

Bottom Line

Dyspareunia or painful sexual penetration is a common condition resulting from scant lubrication, psychological factors, and sexual health problems such as endometriosis and pelvic inflammatory disease. Consult your health care provider if intercourse-induced pain is adversely affecting your sex life.