Some of the myths in circulation about sex suggest that it’s not a big deal if you find the experience physically painful. At McDowell Mountain Gynecology of Scottsdale, Arizona, Dr. Rachel Spieldoch wants you to know that you don’t have to live with painful sex.
It shouldn’t hurt every time you have sex, and if it does, check in with Dr. Spieldoch to see if she can suggest changes or gynecology treatments to take the pain out of what should be a pleasurable experience.
Painful sex sounds bad enough by itself. However, if you’re regularly experiencing pain during sex, you could notice other parts of your life being negatively effected, as well, especially when it comes to connecting with partners.
If sex is painful for you, you might find yourself avoiding intimacy, leading to relationship problems and guilt on your end. Your partner might wonder if they’re wrong for you, or you might fear that your painful sensations are “all in your mind.”
All of these issues can damage your self-esteem and harm your intimate partnerships. It’s more than worth talking to Dr. Spieldoch about your painful sensations during sex in order to restore your full ability to embrace your sex life and personal fulfillment.
Many physical issues can cause pain during sex. These are often very treatable!
Age-related changes at the time around menopause can result in sensitivity in your vaginal tissues. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) could be a good idea for you if your sensations of pain, dryness, or delicacy during sex have become an issue as you’ve grown older.
Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can result in painful sexual intercourse. These include bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infections. Dr. Spieldoch can help you treat the infection and resolve your symptoms.
Endometriosis occurs when patches of uterine tissue start to grow in locations outside of your uterus, often causing painful periods and, potentially, painful sex. You may be able to address your endometriosis symptoms with hormonal medication, or with a minimally invasive surgical procedure to remove stray tissues.
If you experience pelvic organ prolapse, organs including your uterus located in your abdomen can fall out of place due to loss of strength in the tendons and muscles of your pelvic floor. Physical therapy can strengthen your pelvic floor. Biofeedback and pelvic floor stimulation can also help with this condition.
In severe cases, you may need minimally invasive surgical treatment to support your pelvic organs.
Did you know that you could even experience pain during sex from an allergic reaction to your feminine hygiene products, or to lubricants, bath oils, or soaps? Discontinuing use may make a world of difference for your sex life!
Your pain during sex could also have an emotional component, related to sense of self, fear of intimacy, or past experiences of trauma. Your emotional responses create real phenomena in your body, from vaginal tightness to a lack of lubrication.
Dr. Spieldoch can work with you to understand the relationship between your body and your emotions when it comes to sex, and help you find the support you need to embrace your fullest life in the future.
Schedule your consultation appointment with Dr. Spieldoch over the phone now, or book with our online tool.
