Can painful sex be treated?
Painful sex can happen because of physical structural issues, illness or psychological reasons. The medical term for painful sex is called dyspareunia. Other pelvic health conditions including vulvodynia, vestibulodynia, and vaginismus can also contribute to painful sex.
Symptoms of painful sex
Pain with penetration, including inserting a tampon or menstrual disc/cup
Deep pain during thrusting.
Burning pain or aching pain
Throbbing pain lasting hours after sex
Sexual pain can be felt superficially on the outside of the body or deep pain internally. There are many potential causes of painful sex, so it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider to better understand your unique symptoms.
People who experience painful sex tend to experience decreased sexual interest and may avoid having sexual relations entirely. While painful sex affects 3-18% of people worldwide, many people are silent because of the perceived stigma associated. With the right treatment and care providers, people can experience relief from painful sex.
Possible Causes of Painful Sex
Anxiety
chemotherapy + Radiation
Depression
History of sexual abuse
Illness or injury
inadequate lubrication or hormonal deficiences
Infection, inflammation or skin disorders
pelvic floor dysfunction
physical trauma from childbirth
Relationship issues
Scar Tissue from Past Surgeries
Stress
What can help with painful sex?
Sex therapy can be helpful in addressing the psychological and relational components of painful sex. During sex therapy, you can learn mindfulness-based strategies for engaging with bodily sensations, self-soothing and relaxation skills, accept your thoughts and feelings, and identify pleasurable ways to connect with your partner.
Since people with genito-pelvic pain tend to develop fear surrounding sexual experiences, your sex therapist may also talk with you about ways to redefine your own sexuality and work on building a sense of sexual safety and pleasure. Learning to adapt or avoid certain sexual activities that provoke pain may be part of the healing process for you (and your partner if they are involved). Lastly, a sex therapist can help you heal from hurt, silence and misdiagnosis that many people with pelvic pain experience.
How do I begin sex therapy?
You may feel embarrassed about seeking therapy to address pelvic pain concerns, however, beginning therapy is an investment in your own health and wellbeing. Whether you are starting therapy alone or with a partner, reaching out for support can help you learn skills to help you find relief and experience pleasure again.
If you are ready to begin sex therapy, the team at Embrace Sexual Wellness can help. For more information on how Embrace Sexual Wellness can help with painful sex, feel free to request a free 10-minute phone consultation. A clinician will be able to answer any questions and help you get started.
