Female Orgasm Secrets

Common Causes of Pain during Intercourse

Although studies have indicated that pain during intercourse is not uncommon in women, the fact does not diminish the negative impact it can have on a couple’s sex life. Consequences can range from physical discomfort to loss of interest in sex altogether.

Below are some of the most common causes of pain during intercourse:

1. Vaginal tightness - A woman might feel pain when she is not relaxed at the time of penetration. If she is inexperienced, it could be caused by an un-stretched hymen, or a condition known as Vaginismus, involuntary muscle spasms that occur when something is inserted into the vagina.
2. Vaginal dryness - This problem can exist for various reasons, some of which are insufficient arousal, the use of a condom without vaginal lubricants, or a hormonal imbalance following childbirth or menopause.
3. Clitoral pain - The clitoris is the most sensitive part of the female genitalia and may hurt if it is over-stimulated. Poor hygiene sometimes causes vaginal secretions to collect around the clitoris which can create considerable discomfort.
4. Vaginal irritation - In some cases, it is mere oversensitivity, but in other cases, it is an allergic reaction to condoms, sex toys, contraceptive foams or jellies, vaginal soaps or deodorants, and/or laundry detergents.
5. Vaginal infections - Trichomoniasis or yeast infections number among the more serious health concerns and can produce a stinging or burning sensation that is barely apparent, but intensifies when the penis or other object is rubbed against the female genitalia. Genital herpes and other sexually transmitted diseases can cause similar pain during intercourse.
6. Pelvic pain - Pain during deep vaginal penetration could be indicative of an existing health problem. Possible causes include, but are not limited to cervical, uterine or tubal infections, pelvic adhesions, ovarian cysts or tissue damage from child birth or abortion.
7. Physical tiredness – Stress causes tiredness which can reduce your interest in sex by default, but too much stress causes the body to be tense and can be conducive to temporary pain during intercourse.

Recommendations
The first step in dealing with pain during intercourse is to discuss with your partner. Patience, gentleness and perhaps a temporary abstinence from intercourse is recommended as a general approach, but from thereon, a remedy to the situation should be addressed, depending on the symptoms. If you suffer from dryness or inadequate lubrication, you should increase your regular intake of fluids, and avoid dehydrating beverages such as alcohol and coffee. You should also try some drugstore lubricants or longer foreplay prior to penetration. On the other hand, if allergy is suspected, you might want to switch to a different kind of contraceptive or hygiene product.

If the problem persists over time or you cannot discern the source of it, consult a medical doctor. Certain conditions are not easily treated, and there is no reason for letting pain during intercourse continue to hinder your sex-life.

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