Dyspareunia (Painful Sex)
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What Is Dyspareunia (Painful Sex)?
Dyspareunia is the medical term for persistent or recurrent pelvic or genital pain that occurs before, during, or after intercourse.
While many women experience occasional discomfort during sex, some endure persistent pain that often goes undiagnosed and untreated. Unfortunately, these concerns are frequently overlooked, leaving many women to suffer in silence or even blame themselves.
Painful intercourse is a common issue, but it is not something you have to endure alone. Consulting a dyspareunia specialist can provide the support and treatment needed to address the underlying causes and help you experience greater comfort and confidence in your sexual health.
What Are the Causes of Dyspareunia (Painful Sex)?
Dyspareunia can result from a variety of physical, hormonal, and psychological factors. Understanding the underlying cause is essential for effective treatment. Hormonal changes are a common cause of Dyspareunia. During perimenopause and menopause, reduced estrogen levels can cause vaginal dryness and decreased elasticity, leading to discomfort. Hormonal shifts after childbirth or while nursing can also temporarily cause dryness and irritation. Dyspareunia can also be caused by underlying vaginal or pelvic conditions such as certain vaginal infections, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), Endometriosis, Fibroids or Ovarian Cysts, and Vulvodynia (vulval pain). Structural or physical issues can cause Dyspareunia as well such as, Vaginismus (muscle spasms of the vaginal walls), insufficient lubrication, or scarring or adhesions. Psychological and emotional factors could play a large role in causing painful sex (Dyspareunia) — stress, anxiety, depression, past trauma or sexual abuse, and relationship issues. Finally, certain medical conditions – chronic bladder or bowel conditions – and medications may cause Dyspareunia.
If you experience persistent pain during intercourse, a healthcare provider or dyspareunia specialist can diagnose the cause and recommend treatments such as hormone therapy, pelvic floor therapy, lubricants, or counseling. No one should suffer in silence—effective solutions are available.
What Are the Treatments and Therapies for Dyspareunia (Painful Sex)?
Since the causes of dyspareunia can vary greatly, treatment options will be tailored to your specific needs. Our specialists at Well By Messer will work to identify the underlying cause and explore the best possible solutions to help you find relief.
Your doctor may suggest one or more of the following treatment options:
Physical therapy and pelvic floor exercises to improve muscle function and reduce discomfort.
Hormonal or estrogen therapy to address vaginal dryness and tissue thinning.
Medications for pain and inflammation for conditions like vulvodynia.
Medical-grade lubricants and moisturizers to help reduce friction and enhance comfort during intimacy.
Diet modifications to support overall reproductive health.
Surgical options when necessary for underlying conditions
Fibroid treatment, including Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) if fibroids are a contributing factor.
Guidance on healthy sexual practices and habit changes for improved comfort.
Sex Therapy & Counseling to address emotional or psychological factors related to pain.
The first and most important step toward finding relief is starting a conversation—with yourself, your partner, and a dyspareunia specialist who can help you explore the best treatment options.
How Can Well by Messer Help You with Dyspareunia (Painful Sex)?
At Well By Messer, our dyspareunia doctors are committed to providing a thorough evaluation and treatment – which includes a detailed medical history, physical examination, and relevant diagnostic tests. Understanding when your pain began, and where it occurs helps our specialist identify potential causes. Additional factors, such as medications, lifestyle habits, past treatments, or previous surgeries, provide further insight into your condition. Diagnostic tests may include blood work, ultrasounds, or, in some cases, a biopsy to rule out underlying medical conditions and ensure an accurate diagnosis.
We understand that painful intercourse can significantly impact your quality of life, relationships, and overall well-being. At Well By Messer, we are dedicated to identifying the root cause of your discomfort and providing personalized, effective treatments to help you regain confidence and comfort in your intimate life.
Meet the Well by Messer (WBM) Team
Under the leadership of top endocrinologist in New York, Dr. Caroline Messer, our caring and talented team of board-certified endocrinologists, gynecologists, psychologists, nutritionists, and personal trainers will be dedicated to supporting your success at our metabolic centers in Manhattan.
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