Nearly 75% of women experience painful sex at some point in their life. However, a painful sex specialist in Northern Virginia can help you. We understand that this is an intimate topic, but we believe that you deserve the best quality of life. Here’s what you need to know.

What is Painful Sex

Painful sex, or dyspareunia, is a term for painful vaginal intercourse that occurs regularly. Women with this condition may feel pain before, during or after intercourse. Common symptoms include:

• Pain during penetration
• Deep pain with each thrust
• Pain that emerges after sex
• Throbbing pain long after sex

Causes 

There are many factors that contribute to painful sex including gynecological conditions, physical issues, and emotional problems. Emotions that make it difficult for you to relax during sex may make intercourse painful. Because they interfere with normal arousal and lubrication, these emotions can cause many issues. Additionally, medications can interfere with your sexual response and cause painful sex.

Gynecological Problems

There are many gynecological problems associated with painful sex. These include:

• Hormonal changes. Lower estrogen levels during menopause and after giving birth can cause vaginal dryness which makes intercourse painful.
• This is the involuntary contraction of vaginal muscles during sex. It makes sex painful, especially during penetration.
• A common disorder brought on by long-term inflammation, pelvic floor dysfunction, or nerve damage.
• Perineum Trauma. Painful intercourse caused by previous tears in the perineum or an episiotomy during childbirth.
• Contact Dermatitis. This is common and frequently affects the vulva. It causes itching, burning, or painful reaction to an irritating substance like lubricants or fragrance in soaps.

Treatment from a Painful Sex Specialist in Northern Virginia

A painful sex specialist in Northern Virginia can help you uncover the underlying problem of your painful sex. A proper diagnosis is necessary to finding the best treatment for you. To do this, your painful sex specialist will ask about your symptoms, review your medical history, and perform a comprehensive exam.

Depending on the reason for your painful sex, treatment may include medication, physical therapy, vaginal rejuvenation, lifestyle changes, or in some cases, surgery.

Don’t suffer silently. Speak to a professional and get your life back. To learn more, contact the Menopause Center today.