Pain during or after sex? You might have this common gynaecological condition

Pain felt during or after sex is known as dyspareunia – pronounced ‘dys-par-eu-nia’.

It’s one of the most common gynaecological complaints, and affects eight to 22 per cent of women.

According to the Sexual Advice Association, dyspareunia from time to time is normal, but if it happens often it can become a problem.

The main reasons for this are it impacts on a woman’s sex life and can cause her ongoing distress.

There are two types of dyspareunia – superficial and deep.

The former is felt around the entrance of the vagina, while the latter is felt deeper within the pelvis.

It may affect a woman from the first time she has sex, or start later in life.

Causes of superficial dyspareunia include an allergy to latex in condoms, lack of lubrication from sexual arousal, having an STI and suffering from vaginismus, where vaginal muscles tighten during penetration.

However, triggers for deep dyspareunia can include irritable bowel syndrome, endometriosis and spasm of the pelvic floor muscles.

According to the Sexual Advice Association, these are some of the main causes, their symptoms and how they are treated.

Skin conditions

You’ll notice redness, swelling, pain and itching around the affected area.

Try using latex or spermicide-free condoms, or if it’s a skin condition like eczema or Lichen sclerosus and Lichen planus, you can ask your doctor for a topical ointment or cream.

Infectious conditions

Having thrush, an STI and pelvic inflammatory disease can all cause discomfort during sex, such as burning and bleeding after sex.

Additionally, having a UTI may cause pain in the bladder area.

You will need to see a doctor for treatment.

Lack of lubrication

Not feeling sexually aroused can lead to pain during intercourse.

Often women who have been through the menopause and have lower levels of oestrogen, suffer from vaginal dryness.

This can be improved with lubricants and moisturisers.

Irritable bowel syndrome

Disturbance in the bowel may cause abdominal pain during sex.

Treatment will often involve lifestyle changes, such as a different diet, and medications, including laxatives to prevent constipation.