Possible Causes of Pain During Sex

There are a number of potential causes of pain during sex. Some of these causes are infections, such as sexually transmitted diseases. Others are unrelated to sexual activity, such as endometriosis and ovarian cysts. Trauma, as well as certain cancers,

can also cause pain during sex. In addition, there are sexual pain disorders, such as vulvodynia, that are less well understood. If you experience pain during sex, it is therefore important to see your doctor for a proper diagnosis. Pain during sex may be the sign of a serious health problem. Even if it isn't, dealing with your pain can greatly improve your quality of life.

Pain during intercourse is also known as dyspareunia.

Sexually Transmitted Infections That May Cause Pain

A number of different sexually transmitted diseases can potentially lead to pain during sex. STDs associated with pain during intercourse include:

• gonorrhea
• herpes
• molluscum contagiosum - if the sores it causes become infected
• pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) - a condition that usually results from an untreated STD. This can cause significant pain and can also lead to infertility. Infections that can become PID if left untreated include gonorrhea, chlamydia, and bacterial vaginosis.
• trichomoniasis

These STDs cause sexual pain for different reasons. Some cause local swelling, irritation, or discharge. Others cause blisters or sores that are either inherently painful or can easily become infected and lead to pain.

Other Causes of Sexual Pain in Women

Most sexual pain in women is categorized as either pain on entry or deep pain. Some women also experience pain from superficial genital contact. These types of pain can be caused by a variety of medical conditions other than STDs, including:

• vulvodynia - pain on or around the vulva, which may or may not have a clear cause
• vaginismus - uncontrolled spasming of the vagina. This can make penetration difficult or impossible.
• endometriosis - an overgrowth of the uterine lining that usually causes deep pain
• ovarian cysts
• uterine fibroids - benign tumors of the uterus that become more common as women age
• cervical cancer
• damage to the vulva, vagina, or surrounding organs from trauma, childbirth, or female genital mutilation
• eczema and other genital skin conditions, such as lichen sclerosis

There are also a number of non-medical factors that can cause pain during sex. These include insufficient lubrication, stress, and even a history of sexual abuse.Many such difficulties can be treated, or relieved, with a combination of appropriate techniques, therapies, and patience. However, medical causes of dyspareunia should usually be ruled out first.