Dyspareunia

What is dyspareunia?

Dyspareunia means pain during intercourse. It can be caused by a variety of reasons such as local infection, hormonal changes with aging, or an allergy caused by the use of personal care products.

How is it caused?

• Tipped or retroverted uterus: Some women with a tipped uterus experience pain during intercourse. The penis may hit the cervix or uterus during sex causing pain. This condition is known as collision dyspareunia.
  
  
• Endometriosis: The endometrium, which is the tissue lining the uterus, may grow outside the uterus causing deep pain during sex.
  
  
• Infection: Bacterial or yeast infections may result in pain during intercourse.
  
  
• Vulvodynia:This is a condition in which the vulva becomes sensitive and tender to touch.
  
  
• Drugs: Common drugs used for allergy, high blood pressure or depression may affect the amount of vaginal lubrication, sexual arousal and desire. A dry vagina results in pain during intercourse.
  
  
• Physical problems: An abdominal surgery or a scar during delivery can cause a lot of pain during intercourse.
  
  
• Pelvic floor myalgia: Involuntary contractions of the pelvic muscles can result in difficult and uncomfortable sex.
  
  
• Emotional issues: Sometimes, past experiences such as sexual abuse or other psychological problems can be a cause of pain during sex

How is it treated?

The treatment options may depend upon the results of the pelvic examination and other diagnostic tests. The various treatment options include:

• A changed position in case of a tipped uterus, may allow the uterus to move away resulting in a more comfortable intercourse.
  
• In case of infections medications may be given either orally or as vaginal pessaries.
  
• If the problem is caused by insufficient lubrication of the vagina, a cream or jelly may be used to reduce the pain.
  
• Relaxation exercises may help regain control over vaginal muscles. This may help in reducing pain during sexual intercourse.
  
• If the diagnostic tests determine that a tipped uterus or endometriosis may be responsible for the pain, surgery may be suggested.