No, Sex Shouldn’t Hurt: What to Do if You’re Experiencing Sexual Pain

Sexual pain is a very common but under-diagnosed problem for most of us, especially women. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists estimates that approximately one in five women experiences painful sex at some point. Sex pain is still considered taboo, and sufferers suffer without speaking about it. It is the intention of this article to counteract the idea that sex should hurt, to give details on what is behind sexual pain and offer practical advice to anyone who suffers from it.

Understanding Sexual Pain:

Sexual pain (dyspareunia) is felt in a range of ways, including burning, stinging and throbbing experiences during or following sex. It hurts at the entry point, inside, or on the vaginal opening. Although sexual pain is often blamed on dryness or lack of lubrication in the vagina, many other factors contribute to it, including:

Viruses: Most viruses cause dyspareunia. Bacterial vaginosis, yeast infection, and sexually transmitted infections can inflame and itch the vagina, making sex painful. They need to be properly managed and treated to relieve the suffering and prevent it from reoccurring.

Changes in Hormones: The hormone state and balance play an important role in sexual wellness. Vaginal suffocation and wall thinning can give way to suffocating intercourse during menopause, pregnancy or lactation. Treatments may involve hormones and grease to neutralize these effects and make sex easier.

Vulvodynia: It is a chronic pain disorder, wherein the vulvar area feels unresponsive to any known reason. It comes in a wide variety: itchy, painful, so having sex can be uncomfortable and hurtful. Physical therapy, medication and psychotherapy might therefore be used to manage and mitigate the pain.

Endometriosis: It is a disease in which the tissue that mimics the lining of the inside of the uterus is present outside the uterus but most often reaches the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other organs of the pelvis. It can be accompanied by extreme pelvic discomfort during periods and sex. Treatment can include medication, hormones and surgery for symptomatic pain and life support.

Vaginismus: Vaginal spasm is a disorder characterized by contractions of the vaginal muscles. Sexual access can become horribly painful or even impossible. It may sometimes be a psychological phenomenon caused by anxiety or trauma; sometimes it might be physiological. Treatment has often included education, physical therapy and counselling to gain a sense of ease with intimacy.

Breaking the Stigma:

Sensationalism around sexual distress prevents most people from reaching out for help, creating a perception that sex should hurt. Our goal is to normalise sexual health and pain and to make sure that those who experience sexual pain get medical help and treatments. In recognising sexual pain as a common phenomenon, we will open up a kinder and more welcoming space for those affected.

Addressing Sexual Pain:

Sexual pain depends on the underlying reason. Sometimes, self-care and lifestyle interventions can help reduce symptoms. These may include:

Using Lubricants

And one of the most easily and effectively controlled ways to diminish sexual discomfort is over-the-counter lubricants. These items can greatly reduce friction and discomfort during sex. Fluid lubricants made from water are popular because they are easier to apply and don’t irritate. The silicone lubricants, however, last longer and may be better for extended use or for people whose water-based lubricants dry out too quickly. Pick a product that’s free of irritant chemicals and fragrances to avoid further irritation.

Employing Relaxation Techniques

Tension and spasms in muscles are both often a contributing factor in sexual distress. Relaxation techniques can ease these symptoms by being part of your routine. Breathing exercises can be an easy and powerful way to lower stress levels and relax the mind, making your sexual journey easier.

Exercises for the pelvic floor, including Kegels, can also be very helpful. These exercises contract the pelvic floor muscles, thus strengthening the muscles and relieving spasms. If you keep practicing, your sexual fit will remain superior over time.

Gradual Dilatation

For vaginal twitching caused by vaginismus, an illness in which the vaginal muscles become tense out of habit, gradual dilatation may be a useful intervention. Vaginal dilators, available in a wide variety of sizes, can help to slowly dilate the vaginal muscles, eliminating any pain and discomfort. This technique should be taken very slowly, and the dilator should gradually get larger as the patient becomes more comfortable.

If you consult a doctor or pelvic floor therapist prior to performing dilatation, you can ensure that the procedure is safe and effective.

Maintaining a Healthy Diet and Exercise Routine

Sex is linked to a holistic physical health. A healthy diet high in nutriments ensures hormonal stability and good vaginal health. Omega-3 fats, antioxidants and phytoestrogens are particularly beneficial foods.

Exercise boosts cardiovascular health, energy, hormone balance and body weight — all factors that can influence sexual comfort. Exercises that improve pelvic strength and flexibility (for example, yoga or Pilates) can also help to reduce sexual pain.

When self-care isn’t enough, doctors might need to intervene. Talking with a medical professional will identify the root of sexual pain and determine what treatment is best, which might include:

Drugs: Antibiotics, antifungals or hormone treatments are commonly used to prevent or manage infections or hormonal disturbances.
PFT Physical Therapy: A pelvic floor physical therapist can resolve muscle tension, spasms, and weakness.
Surgery: For severe cases of endometriosis or other structural dysfunction, surgical repair might be needed to manage sexual discomfort.

Conclusion: No, Sex Shouldn’t Hurt: What to Do if You’re Experiencing Sexual Pain

Sex should never hurt. Through an awareness of the sources of sexual distress, and the reduction of the stigma associated with this disorder, we can enable anyone suffering from sexual distress to seek support and treatment. You can overcome sexual pain and live a happy and painless sexual life with the appropriate medical treatment and care at home.