Painful Intercourse
Painful Intercourse
Very painful menstrual cramps aren’t the only sign of endometriosis. The condition can also make sexual intercourse uncomfortable or even unbearable.
A common symptom of endometriosis and other pelvic pain conditions is dyspareunia, a persistent or recurrent pain that can happen during sexual intercourse. Not only can painful intercourse take a physical toll on a woman, but the emotional impact and relationship tension can be just as detrimental. You may feel embarrassed, anxious, distant, and alone. Fortunately, with help from Endometriosis Center of America, relief is available.
Painful intercourse can be caused by a variety of conditions including:
There’s no need to be afraid or ashamed of these sensitive issues. In fact, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 3 out of 4 women will experience pain during sex at some point.
If you are experiencing persistent pain during intercourse, your concerns should be addressed as soon as possible. At Endometriosis Center of America, we can help you overcome painful intercourse, rediscover sexual desire, and make intimacy enjoyable again. Call or contact us now.
Dyspareunia Symptoms & Causes
When you experience painful intercourse, sex is not enjoyable. On the contrary, it can be distressing for both you and your partner. Endometrial complications like dyspareunia can cause pain before, during, or soon after sex. Some women may experience an aching, burning, throbbing, or ripping sensation during sex. Many women also report pain in the perineum (the small stretch of skin in between your vagina and anus), pelvis, lower back, bladder, and/or uterus. For some, pain levels are more intense around their menstrual periods. Such pain and discomfort will make you and perhaps your partner dissatisfied and disinterested with sex as a result.
So what causes painful intercourse? Pelvic adhesions (endometrial tissue that becomes stuck together), fibroids, ovarian cysts, a tilted uterus, dryness, and inflammation can all contribute to this problem. When there is an overgrowth of hormonally sensitive endometrial tissue, it can result in ovarian cysts and scar tissue along the uterus and fallopian tubes. Painful intercourse is also caused by vaginal dryness, the menstrual cycle ending during menopause, fluctuations in estrogen levels from pregnancy and/or breastfeeding, pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, nerve damage, and other trauma from childbirth, or even emotional issues.
No matter what the cause of pain during sex is, the providers at Endometriosis Center of America will listen to your concerns and provide gentle guidance to the solutions you need.
Treatments for Painful Intercourse
Endometriosis and other pelvic disorders can affect your daily life, but the symptoms are often manageable with treatment. In some cases, endometriosis pain goes away on its own.
How is endometriosis diagnosed? To address endometrial issues like painful intercourse, we first perform a comprehensive physical exam including a pelvic exam. At this appointment, we will also ask about your medical history, sexual history, medications, and any preexisting conditions that may impact your sexual response. We may also perform an MRI or ultrasound of your reproductive organs.
Sex isn’t supposed to hurt. To diagnose endometriosis and manage other causes of painful intercourse, request an appointment or schedule a pelvic exam today and get started on the path to prioritizing sexual health and wellness.
If You Experience Severe Pain or Discomfort During Intercourse, Reach Out to Endometriosis Center of America for Solutions
If sex is uncomfortable for you, medical problems may be at the root of the issue. Endometriosis Center of America in Michigan can help you find relief, reduce pain, and reconnect with your partner. Schedule your appointment today to get started.