WHY DO SOME WOMEN FEEL PAIN DURING SEX?

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There are two conditions that cause this condition: Dysparenia and Vaginismus, however, both have their own characteristics that differentiate them for diagnosis and treatment.

 

     1. The Dysparenia: is a symptom of a physical or psychological disorder, specifically defined as persistent genital pain that occurs before, during or after vaginal penetration and even when inserting a tampon. Signs such as clitoral contraction, bacterial or fungal growth, altered vaginal pH, and an unusual appearance of the vaginal epithelium are also present.

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For better understanding and diagnosis, the following should be taken into consideration:

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• How often does this condition occur? With this, it is possible to know if the dyspaurenia has occurred in each sexual encounter or has only occurred during certain occasions.

• How long has it lasted? This will depend on its origin to establish the duration of each episode, which can vary from a few seconds to hours.

• What has been the magnitude or intensity? It is useful to know, to establish whether it is a simple superficial burning sensation or an almost stabbing pain that can last for hours after each intercourse.

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   2. Vaginismus: It is a diagnosis that tends to be confused with Dysparenia, it is characterized by an automatic reaction of the body to the fear of any penetration, either of the penis or fingers, to insert a tampon and even for a gynecological examination, this creates a inevitable involuntary and unconscious contraction of the pelvic floor muscles that surround the vagina, causing its partial or total closure and causing pain in that area. 

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Among the psychological causes of vaginismus are:

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• Any type of fear, whether it be the idea of pain during penetration, getting pregnant, not being ready for intercourse, also rejection, among others.

• For anxiety or stress, this includes previous negative experiences, emotional trauma and inappropriate beliefs or negativity towards sex.

• Relationship problems, including mistrust, emotional detachment, others.

• Trauma or post-traumatic stress, due to sexual abuse or gender violence.

• Sexual repression in the family environment or for religious beliefs.

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Among the physical causes are some such as:

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• Obstetric trauma, due to a difficult delivery, caesarean section, abortions and episiotomies.

• Due to hormonal changes and menopause.

• Lack of vaginal lubrication or inadequate stimulation.

• For pelvic surgery.

• Cases of rape, abuse or physical or sexual attacks.

• Due to drug effects.