Painful Intercourse (Dyspareunia)
Painful intercourse, also known as dyspareunia, is more common than many people realize, but it is not something you have to live with. Discomfort during or after sex can affect your physical health, emotional well-being, and relationships.
At Legacy For Women in Henderson, NV, our OBGYN team provides compassionate, judgment-free care to identify the cause of your pain and help you find relief through personalized, effective treatment.
What Is Dyspareunia?
Dyspareunia refers to pain during or after vaginal intercourse. The pain may range from mild irritation to sharp or burning sensations and can be:
- External (entry pain): Felt at the vaginal opening
- Internal (deep pain): Felt deeper in the pelvis during thrusting
- Occasional or consistent
- Position-specific or always present
Understanding the type, location, and timing of pain is the first step in determining the underlying cause.
Common Causes of Painful Intercourse
Physical causes:
- Vaginal dryness, often after menopause or childbirth
- Hormonal changes related to perimenopause, breastfeeding, or medications
- Vaginal atrophy, or thinning of vaginal tissues
- Endometriosis
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Ovarian cysts or uterine fibroids
- Urinary tract infections or interstitial cystitis
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Vaginismus, or involuntary tightening of vaginal muscles
- Pelvic floor dysfunction
Emotional and psychological factors:
- Past trauma or sexual abuse
- Anxiety, depression, or relationship stress
- Fear of pain, which can increase muscle tension
Many women experience a combination of physical and emotional factors that contribute to discomfort.
When to See a Provider
You should schedule a visit at our women’s health clinic in Henderson if you:
- Avoid intimacy because of pain or fear of discomfort
- Experience new or worsening pain during intercourse
- Notice vaginal dryness, itching, or burning
- Have difficulty with arousal or orgasm due to discomfort
- Are unsure whether your symptoms are normal
- Want to discuss options for improving comfort and intimacy
Pain during sex is never normal. Early evaluation can lead to lasting relief and improved sexual well-being.
Diagnosis
Your OBGYN will begin with a detailed discussion about your symptoms, sexual history, and overall health. Diagnosis may include:
- A gentle pelvic exam to assess vaginal and pelvic tissue
- Evaluation for infections, inflammation, or hormonal changes
- Ultrasound or STI screening if additional testing is needed
We create a safe, respectful environment where you can discuss your concerns openly and comfortably.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and your personal preferences.
Non-hormonal support:
- Vaginal lubricants and moisturizers
- Counseling or sex therapy when emotional factors are involved
- Pelvic floor physical therapy for muscle tension or vaginismus
Hormonal treatments:
- Vaginal estrogen cream, tablet, or ring to restore moisture and elasticity
- DHEA suppositories to improve tissue health without systemic estrogen
- Systemic hormone therapy for women experiencing broader menopausal symptoms
Advanced options:
- Vaginal laser therapy to rejuvenate tissue and relieve dryness
- Medications for conditions such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease
- Trauma-informed counseling if past experiences contribute to pain
Your provider at Legacy For Women will design a treatment plan that is comfortable, respectful, and tailored to your needs.
You Deserve Comfortable, Fulfilling Intimacy
Painful intercourse is not an inevitable part of aging or something you should have to accept. With compassionate care and advanced treatment options, most women can find relief and enjoy intimacy again.
Schedule an appointment today at Legacy For Women in Henderson, NV, to discuss your symptoms and take the first step toward healing and renewed confidence.