Pain during sex is a common issue for women. While many women don’t feel comfortable discussing this problem, it’s important that you bring it up with an OBGYN. After all, pain with intercourse can be caused by a variety of different factors, some of which could be underlying diseases and conditions that require immediate treatment. Are you experiencing pain during sex? If so, it could be caused by:

• Not enough lubrication
• Vaginismus
• A vaginal infection such as a yeast infection
• Problems or infections of the cervix
• Uterine fibroids (can cause deep pain)
• Endometriosis
• Menopause
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Ovarian cysts
• Sexually transmitted diseases
• Vagina or vulva injuries
• Vulvodynia

Sometimes emotional factors such as depression, anxiety, or a history of sexual abuse may play a role in sexual pain. It’s important to be open about the symptoms you are experiencing and any emotional factors that might be involved. This will give your OBGYN insight into better ways to treat your pain.

When to See an OBGYN

If you are experiencing pain with sex it’s important that you speak with your OBGYN right away. You should call if you also notice,

• Changes in vaginal discharge
• Itching
• Soreness
• Lesions

Treating Pain with Sex

The cause of your pain will dictate which treatment options will be most effective. If lack of lubrication is the cause, your OBGYN may recommend using a lubricant. If hormones are playing a role, which can be the cause for menopausal women, hormonal therapy can help to better balance hormones to improve vaginal dryness.

If an allergy is to blame, your OBGYN may recommend avoiding certain products that could be irritating the area. If an underlying disease or condition is causing pain, your OBGYN will discuss different ways to treat these issues whether through medications or surgery. If emotional factors are playing a part, your OBGYN may refer you to a therapist or psychologist who can help you work through anxiety, depression, or other emotional issues you’re experiencing.

If you find yourself dealing with persistent pain with intercourse, your OBGYN can help figure out what’s going on and provide you with the answers you need to make sex enjoyable again. You don’t have to deal with this problem alone.