Why Does My Vagina Hurt During Intercourse?

Do you experience persistent or recurrent difficulties with vaginal penetration during intercourse?

Do you experience marked vulvovaginal or pelvic pain during vaginal intercourse or penetration attempts?

Do you experience marked fear or anxiety about vulvovaginal or pelvic pain in anticipation of, during, or as a result of vaginal penetration?

Do you experience marked tensing or tightening of the pelvic floor muscles during attempted vaginal penetration?

Have the symptoms persisted for a minimum duration of approximately 6 months?

Do the symptoms cause significant distress?

While it is unlikely that you have a significant problem with vaginal pain during intercourse, you may be experiencing some uncomfortable symptom during the act. Vaginal penetration should not hurt, especially if you make sure that you are stimulated enough. However, occasionally it may happen that you feel discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse, even when you think that you are fully aroused. Often, sex may be painful if there is not sufficient lubrication. In that case, the women has to make sure to be more relaxed, to use lubricant or increase the amount of foreplay. If the symptom interferes with your sex life, it may be important to talk to your doctor.

While it is unlikely that you have a serious problem related to vaginal penetration pains, you may be displaying one or two symptoms related to discomfort or pain during intercourse. The majority of women will experience pain during intercourse at some point. But for most of them, the pain happens only few times. Intense chronic pain is not normal. If sex is not an enjoyable experience for you, it may be important to talk with your doctor, especially if you are avoiding the act or want to stop. Besides, make sure to be open to your partner about it. Vaginal pains can also be a symptom of a mental disorder, partner violence, or sometimes a medication.

Unfortunately, you are displaying symptoms typically seen among women who have genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder. It may be recommended to talk with your doctor as soon as possible. Females who suffer from genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder experience intense pain or discomfort when attempting or during intercourse. The disorder causes other issues, including avoidance of sexual interaction due to fear of pain. This will have a negative influence on the relationship. Often, besides the physical pains, there are some negative emotional effects. Addressing the problem is therefore very important. Treatment of the disorder depends on the cause of the pain.