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Why Do People Experience Pain During Sex?

Pain during sex is common, but that doesn’t mean it is normal...

Lots of things can cause pain during sex. First, ask yourself “what, when, and where?” What kind of pain is it? (Burning, poking, scratching?) When do you experience the pain? (Is it the entire time you’re being penetrated or tied to specific sex positions?) Where is the pain coming from? (Maybe you feel it deep inside or closer to your vulva.) These simple questions can help you be more specific in your search for answers. Here are some possible causes of pain during sex.

vaginal dryness

Sex always feels better when you’re wet! Up to 78% of people with vaginal dryness report pain…

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Featured

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Articles of Interest

Pain during sex? Incontinence or constipation? You might benefit from pelvic floor physiotherapy

“How did I not know this was a pelvic floor issue? Why didn’t my doctor send me here sooner? Do you have other patients with problems like mine?” As a physiotherapist, I hear these questions again and again, from people of all ages and genders, who are struggling with issues related to the urinary system, sexual function and the lower digestive tract.

Painful Sex Is the Most Distressing Sexual Problem for Women

Of all the sexual problems listed in the survey, painful sex was the issue women found to be most distressing.

Painful Sex Nearly Destroyed My Relationship

My experience isn't typical. But with so many possible contributors to sexual pain, I don't know that anyone's is. The one thing I can say without hesitation is that, while sex can hurt, it shouldn't. And while the route to managing or eliminating sexual pain can be a circuitous one, it's well worth following.

Sex Hurts. Help!

Pain with sex is up there in prevalence with migraine and low back pain, and yet it is woefully understudied and rarely discussed.

Sex With My Husband Has Always Been Really Painful

I’ve hidden this for 14 years. Is there any hope of fixing it now?

There’s a stigma around lube. These brands want to change that.

Why are straight people so resistant to using personal lubricant?

Treating Painful Sex

It's not uncommon for women to experience painful sexual intercourse at some point in their lives. It may be a sign of a gynecologic problem, a problem with sexual response, or simply a lack of arousal.

Vaginismus: the common condition leading to painful sex

Vaginismus is an extremely common condition, that can have a huge impact on women, their partners and relationships. Yet many with it feel alone and without hope as it’s rarely talked about. But women don’t need to live with it — it’s easy to diagnose and it’s treatable.

When sex gives more pain than pleasure

Millions of women experience pain before, during, or after sexual intercourse—a condition called dyspareunia (from the Greek dyspareunos, meaning "badly mated"). This condition not only saps sexual desire and enjoyment, it can also strain relationships and erode quality of life in general. For postmenopausal women, dyspareunia may also raise concerns about aging and body image.

When Sex Is a Pain

Fibromyalgia, injuries and pain medication can all screw up your sex life. But with communication and courage, you can still enjoy physical intimacy with your partner.

When Sex Is Excruciating

Women with endometriosis often experience severe pain, most commonly during their menstrual cycle or while having intercourse.

Why is sex painful for some women – and what can they do?

Up to one third of women may experience pain during sex, but most never seek the treatment they need.

Resources

6 Reasons It Hurts When You Have Sex

t can feel scary and isolating when sex doesn’t feel good, but you’re not alone if your vagina’s not playing ball. A British survey, published in 2017, found that nearly one in 10 women experience painful sex (dyspareunia).