Painful Sex

Painful Sex...Why Does it Happen?

Did you know that one in ten women experience painful sex consistently? When sex hurts, it's really not as much fun. It makes us wonder why this isn’t talked about more often, and if there are solutions to this issue. Pain during sex, also known as dyspareunia, can be a result of many things, ranging from a lack of arousal all the way to vaginal conditions. If you are experiencing painful intercourse, you shouldn’t feel embarrassed. There are many underestimated reasons why women experience pain during intercourse — and there are solutions.

Lack of Arousal

If you are experiencing painful sex, it’s a good idea to first check if you’re aroused enough for adequate lubrication. Lack of arousal can be a major cause of painful sex because of dryness and increased friction. Try buying moisturizing water-based lubricant to use during sex, as well as giving more time for foreplay so that you can get aroused before penetration. If it’s an issue of having a lower libido than that of your partner’s, there are ways to boost your libido to make sex more enjoyable for you.

Menopause

When women go through menopause, their estrogen levels decrease, causing drying and thinning of vaginal tissues and less responsiveness of the vagina overall. This can make sex extremely painful for women who have gone through menopause. There are remedies for painful sex after menopause, such as low-dose vaginal estrogen cream.

Breastfeeding

Women who are breastfeeding may demonstrate symptoms similar to those who are menopausal. Like women going through menopause, your estrogen levels are lower when you’re breastfeeding, which is why you typically don’t get a period. The vaginal wall can become dry, which then causes painful sex. You can also use a low-dose estrogen cream and lubrication. Additionally, our postpartum herbal pads are great to use for a “cooling” effect to soothe soreness and calm cramping.

Infection

Although many STIs may be asymptomatic, they can cause painful sex. It’s important to get tested after unsafe sex or after having sex with a new partner. This will ensure you’re healthy and feel good, as well as limit the possibility of passing an STI onto someone else. UTIs and yeast infections can also be reasons for pain during sex, but luckily both can be treated easily. If you do have a yeast infection, you can try a DIY itch relief treatment.

Latex Allergy

If you experience itching or hives after having sex with a condom, you may have a latex allergy. A vaginal allergic reaction can cause swelling, pain, and itching. If you do find that you’re allergic, there are safe condom options for you.

Vaginismus

Vaginismus is a condition that where your pelvic floor muscles spasms, making it nearly impossible to have intercourse. There are different types of Vaginismus and many different factors that can cause it. If you feel that you might be experiencing Vaginismus, you should visit your doctor to get an exam and find the right solution for you. Exercises, such as pelvic physical therapy, may be an option for you. And learn more about the importance of kegels here.