Both men and women can experience dyspareunia, which is characterized as pain or discomfort that results from sexual intercourse. Dyspareunia can impact interpersonal relationships and reduce quality of life, so finding the right treatment is crucial to avoiding negative outcomes.
Painful intercourse can be linked to certain medical conditions, including:
Other issues can also contribute to dyspareunia. For survivors of abuse, painful intercourse may be related to instances of trauma. Mental health disorders can also play a role.
Intercourse is often painful for women immediately after childbirth. Also, vaginal dryness can cause discomfort during sex. Vaginal dryness is a common facet of menopause, but it can impact women of all ages.
Treatment timelines depend on the underlying issue that’s causing dyspareunia. After pregnancy, dyspareunia typically resolves within six weeks or so, although the timeline can be longer or shorter depending on the circumstances. With other causes, it may take several months or up to a year or more before the issue subsides. Rest assured that there are many effective methods for treating dyspareunia, and many people affected by the disorder can find a suitable solution.
Treatment of dyspareunia varies based on the circumstances surrounding painful intercourse. If vaginal dryness is an issue, using a water-based lubricant during sex can help. When vaginal dryness results from menopause, hormone therapy is often beneficial. Physicians can also recommend certain medications to ease pain during sex.
For men who experience dyspareunia due to foreskin issues, surgery may be required. As for painful erections, the condition can be treated with non-invasive procedures (such as injectable medications and aspiration) and surgery.
For some people, dyspareunia is not linked to a health disorder. In these cases, doctors may recommend sexual therapy. Sexual therapy is often beneficial for survivors of abuse, who may carry immense guilt and shame surrounding sexual acts. Speaking with a therapist can help overcome these complex emotions and greatly enhance a person’s quality of life.