It is a problem many women are uncomfortable talking about, even with their intimate partners. Pain during sex is a serious issue for many women, and it can be caused by a variety of medical conditions and environmental factors.
If you experience pain or discomfort during sex, it is important to talk to your partner – and to your doctor. Your doctor can perform a thorough examination, one that can find the root cause of the pain and allow you to enjoy a rich and fulfilling sex life once again. In the meantime, here are some of the most common causes of pain during sex, and what you can do about them.
Lack of Preparation
A simple lack of preparation is one of the most common causes of pain during sex, and one of the easiest to address. If you are experiencing pain during sex due to a lack of natural lubrication, talk to your partner about your discomfort.
An extended period of foreplay and other sexual activities can go a long way, but it all starts with openness and honesty. Engaging in penetrative sex before you are fully ready will only make your apprehension worse, and that could lead to pain and discomfort.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Some causes of pain during sex are more serious, and that includes sexually transmitted diseases. Many sexually transmitted diseases cause pain during intercourse, so it is important to get tested if you think this might be the problem.
Getting tested for sexually transmitted diseases is important for both you and your partner. If you get a clean bill of health, you can rest easy and look for other causes of your discomfort and pain. If you are infected, you can start treatment right away, protecting you and your intimate partner.
Menopause and Other Medical Issues
For older women, experiencing pain during sex may be the first sign of menopause and other age-related changes. As you age, your hormone levels change, and that can reduce the amount of natural lubrication you produce, making sex less comfortable or even painful.
If you are in menopause and experiencing pain during sex, applying a personal lubricant before penetration can help a lot, as can additional foreplay and understanding from your partner. If you are not sure that menopause is the cause of your pain and discomfort, ask your doctor to test your hormone levels.
Also keep in mind that other medical issues, unrelated to menopause and aging, can also cause pain during sex. It is important to talk to your doctor about any pain you are experiencing, including sexual pain. Your doctor can perform a thorough examination, ruling out serious medical issues and helping you and your partner enjoy a more fulfilling sex life.
