The Conversation We Need to Have About Pain During Intercourse
Experiencing dyspareunia (otherwise known as pain during intercourse) is highly common, with approximately 75% of women suffering from it at some point in their lives. But while this issue can be frequent, that does not make it normal, nor do you have to endure it. This condition can manifest in various ways, including:
- Pain even when inserting a tampon
- Pain during penetration or thrusting
- Pelvic pain before, during, or after intercourse
As you might imagine, and even experience yourself, this condition can impact the life of any woman suffering from it, both physically and emotionally. That’s why finding compassionate care is necessary. Our experts, led by Dr. Joseph Brooks, not only validate your experience, but also listen to your worries, and move past the stigma and shame of conditions like this to help you stop suffering in silence.
Dealing With Dyspareunia
The treatment approach most suited for your specific case will depend entirely on the cause of your condition. That’s why the first step for our specialized providers is to examine you. This includes going over your medical history and current conditions, and performing a physical exam (that oftentimes includes a colposcopy exam). Additionally, a series of tests may also be necessary. By doing all of this, our specialists can identify the exact cause of your problem and manage it with a targeted approach and effective treatment.
Possible Causes of Pain During Intercourse
Dyspareunia is more than simply a medical condition; it can also be the symptom of an underlying health issue. Dyspareunia can have multiple causes, and while talking about your condition can be embarrassing, finding out its cause is essential for you to receive proper care and treatment.
Our experts in female wellness located in Phoenix, Arizona, can determine the cause of your condition no matter how intricate it is. Some of the possible and complex causes of pain during intercourse that we manage include:
- Yeast or bacterial infections
- Vulvodynia
- Labial hypertrophy
- Vaginismus
- Lichen sclerosus
- Hormonal changes
- Vulvar vestibulitis
👉 Related: Spotting a Chronic Vaginal Infection in Phoenix, Arizona
Our Treatment Options for You in Phoenix, Arizona
At Arizona Specialized Gynecology, our experts design a personalized treatment approach based on the cause and your specific case. Furthermore, we offer other treatment options meant to restore pleasure to your sexual life, including:
O-Shot
This is a quick, non-surgical, and minimally invasive rejuvenation method that employs the patient’s own blood platelets to promote healing and rejuvenate vaginal and clitoral tissue. This procedure can be helpful in cases of dyspareunia caused by dryness, difficulty getting aroused, injuries, lichen sclerosus, among others. Additionally, this treatment option is a great alternative for patients who are worried about side effects, since it is made using the patient’s own blood, avoiding the possible reactions caused by drugs.
MonaLisa Touch
This is a non-surgical, hormone-free option that can serve as an alternative for patients who experience painful sex. This approach can help with vaginal dryness, low estrogen levels, and menopause by stimulating collagen production, restoring elasticity, and increasing moisture. One of its main advantages is its quickness, with the entire procedure lasting no more than 30 minutes and requiring a recovery time of at least two days. Side effects are minimal and resolve within one or two days.
FAQ
When should you see a doctor about painful sex?
While addressing this issue can be embarrassing and difficult to talk about, going to a doctor as soon as you notice that the pain is frequent, severe, and does not go away, is essential, especially if it does not resolve using extra lubrication
What causes pain during intercourse?
The causes of pain during intercourse can be varied and depend on the specific case, ranging from lack of lubrication, infections and irritation, or injuries to complex gynecological conditions, certain illnesses, childbirth, and previous surgeries.
Can my visit be virtual?
No, because of the nature of the sub-specialty, seeing the patient is essential to accomplish a proper diagnosis from the beginning and to provide the best care and treatment possible.
Regain Your Female Wellness in Phoenix, Arizona
If you’re experiencing pain during intercourse and are embarrassed to talk about it, you need to know that there’s nothing to be ashamed of and that you’re not alone. Our experts in vulvovaginal diseases and pelvic pain are here to support you, validate your experience, as well as guide you through a proper diagnosis and find the best treatment for you. Schedule an appointment to regain control over your female wellness with a personalized approach in Phoenix, Arizona.