Why Does It Hurt When I Have Sex? What Women Should Know

If you experience pain during intercourse, it can be a traumatizing ordeal. You may feel alone trying to navigate your symptoms and emotions, not to mention that any feelings of perceived shame, guilt, and embarrassment can be debilitating. These feelings often keep women from seeking help and receiving proper treatment. However, you’re not alone. It’s estimated that at least 75% of women experience painful sex at some point in their lives. 

There’s nothing to be ashamed of if you experience painful sex. The Endometriosis Treatment Center of America (ETCOA) is dedicated to eliminating the stigma surrounding painful sex. In this blog, we’ll cover why sex shouldn’t hurt, common causes, treatment options, and why you should seek medical remedies for painful sex. 

Should Sex Hurt?

Intercourse shouldn’t hurt, it should be pleasurable. Occasional soreness is usually nothing to worry about, but if you’re experiencing burning, aching, throbbing, or extreme pain during or after sex, you should speak with a medical professional. Additionally, many women experience pelvic, lower back, and bladder pain accompanied with their painful sex symptoms. When in doubt, you know your body best, and if the pain is frequent, constant, or causes you to avoid sex with your partner, don’t hesitate to contact an expert like those at ETCOA. 

Endometriosis & Painful Intercourse 

Painful sex, also called dyspareunia, can be caused by endometriosis. If you have endometriosis, the uterine lining develops in places it shouldn’t—outside the uterus. Even though this tissue is misplaced, it continues to shed every 28 days or so, as it would in the uterus. But because of its abnormal location, it becomes stuck, causing pain, inflammation, and even adhesions.

Depending on the location of your endometriosis, sex can irritate the misplaced endometrial tissue and adhesions. Motions of intercourse can pull, stretch, and inflame the tissue of the uterus, vagina, and other areas. You may experience more pain or less in certain positions compared to others depending on the severity and location of your endometriosis.

What Are Other Causes of Painful Sex?

Endometriosis isn’t the only cause of painful intercourse. Some other conditions that cause pain during sex include:

• Uterine fibroids
• Vulvodynia
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Vaginal infection
• Uterine prolapse
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Hemorrhoids

Furthermore, emotional factors, like stress and psychological issues, can play a role in pain during sex. No matter the cause of your intercourse affliction, you don’t deserve to go through it alone. At ETCOA, our team of experienced, compassionate experts can help diagnose and treat your discomfort. 

Treatment Options for Painful Sex

To find the culprit of your pain, we’ll perform a pelvic exam and evaluate your medical history, symptoms, and any medications you may be taking. An MRI or ultrasound may be necessary to examine your reproductive organs more closely. With this information, your provider can diagnose the cause of your pelvic pain. 

At ETCOA, we’re dedicated to helping you find relief from painful sex. Our team of experts may recommend birth control, medication, hormonal or physical therapy, and, if necessary, surgery to combat painful intercourse. 

Find Personalized Treatment Options in Lake Orion, MI & Beyond

Don’t let the perceived embarrassment or awkwardness of discussing painful sex stop you from seeking treatment! At ETCOA, we strive to create a comfortable, stress-free environment, so you can receive the relief you deserve. 

With proper diagnosis and treatment, you can enjoy intimate moments with your partner once again. Reach out to a caring, understanding team member for more information about how you can find relief from painful intercourse. 

Need Relief From Painful Sex? Call ETCOA Today!

Proudly serving Lake Orion & Birmingham, MI & beyond, ETCOA can help you find relief from painful sex. With years of experience, we’re here for you. Call us at (248) 609-6040 or contact us online today!