Pain during intercourse: know the main causes and treatments

A sexual relationship suggests moments of affection, delivery, and dedication to the other person. However, what should be a pleasant time can become a time of discomfort and deep pain for some women.

According to Felipe Lorenzato, gynecologist and doctor of Molecular Pathology at University College London (UCL), in addition to pelvic inflammatory disease, other diseases can also cause pain during sexual intercourse. “STDs like herpes simplex, vaginal candidiasis, vulvodynia, or chancroid predispose to superficial pain,” he says.

vaginismus

Pain can also indicate another type of problem, such as vaginismus. “It is an involuntary, recurring or persistent contraction of the muscles of the perineum adjacent to the lower third of the vagina, when vaginal penetration is attempted or imagined with a penis, finger, tampon or speculum,” conceptualizes Dr. Philip Lorenzato.

Importance of foreplay

To avoid pain, it is worth remembering the importance of foreplay and creating a favorable atmosphere to welcome the moment of sexual intercourse. “A relaxing environment, music, good conversation, sexual desire, the exchange of caresses, kisses, nipple stimulation and tactile sensation in the anogenital region, especially in the periclitoral area, lead to female arousal…”, reiterates the doctor.

Reduced sex drive or libido

When there are no conditions or time for arousal and subsequent adequate lubrication, the likelihood of discomfort during intercourse increases and the chances of reaching orgasm are lower. “This explains why some women may experience discomfort during intercourse, which in turn can decrease their sex drive or libido,” says Dr. Philip Lorenzato.

Vaginal lubrication in menopause

The menopausal stage can also decrease vaginal lubrication. The doctor. Felipe Lorenzato explains that the condition is characterized by at least 12 consecutive months of no menstruation, with no connection to pregnancy, associated with a range of symptoms and decreased levels of estrogen, which is a female hormone. “Therefore, during menopause, women may experience some discomfort in sexual intercourse, but treatment can safely alleviate the problem,” he adds.

Endometriosis can cause pain

Gynecologist Dr. Cecília Roteli lists endometriosis as another possible cause of discomfort during sex. “This is because tissue that is normally found inside the uterus grows outside the uterus and can cause pain in the pelvis.”

forms of treatment

Pain management, according to Dr. Cecília Roteli, will depend on the cause and can be done through:

• Antibiotics or antifungals: For infections of the vagina or bladder
• Lubricating creams for unexplained vaginal dryness
• Hormonal creams for menopausal women
• Psychotherapy for cases of pain due to psychological problems such as childhood trauma and others
• Surgery for some cases of endometriosis

However, only doctors will be able to diagnose the cause of the pain. “In addition to the physical and gynecological examination, there are some tests such as urine and vaginal fluid examination, which will help make the correct diagnosis and guide the treatment,” concludes the doctor.