Do you experience severe discomfort or pain after sex? If yes, you are likely wondering what is causing the pain. Health experts have pointed out that dyspareunia or painful sex is a common condition and is caused by many factors. Everything from allergies and infections to certain health conditions can increase the likelihood of you experiencing it.
While men and women can experience pain after intercourse, women have higher odds of experiencing it. Many women feel the pain on their lower pelvis, vagina, and uterus. According to one survey, 3 of 4 women will experience painful sex at a certain point in their life.
In this article, we will be looking at some of the main causes of pain after sex and some ways effective ways to address it.
Main Reasons why you experience pain after sex
STis
There are many sexually transmitted infections that can make sex painful. Gonorrhea and Chlamydia, for example, can cause swellings in the vaginal. This, thus, will make sex uncomfortable and painful. People with this condition may also experience pain when peeing and have abnormal discharge. If you have Gonorrhea, you should visit your doctor. They will recommend medications that can address the infection.
Herpes is another common STI that can cause pain during and after sex. While there is presently no cure for it, there are certain medications that can reduce the risk of painful outbreaks and transmission.
Using condoms while using sex toys or having penetrative sex is the best to reduce the risk of STIs.
Vagina Dryness
If you can’t self-lubricate properly, chances are, you will experience mild to severe vaginal soreness after intercourse.
Vaginal dryness is caused by everything from hormonal changes to not getting aroused before intercourse. Childbirth can also increase the odds of vaginal dryness.
To address vaginal dryness, your doctor may recommend moisturizers, lubricants, and vaginal estrogens. Keep in mind that menopause can also cause vagina dryness. You may require hormone therapy to address it.
Allergic Reactions
People who are allergic to latex may experience, a burning sensation or pain during sex and after sex if their partner uses a latex condom. If you have this issue, you should opt for natural condoms. They are usually made from the membranes of lambs ( they don’t protect against Sexually Transmitted infections).
Condoms made from polyurethane are a great alternative to natural condoms as they offer more protection and don’t cause an allergic reaction.
Skin Irritation can make you experience pain after sex
The product you are using may be the reason why experience pain after sex. As pointed out by sex experts, products like latex condoms, heavily scented vaginal products, and some brands of spermicides can cause irritation to the skin, which in turn can result in pain during and after sex.
Doctors don’t usually recommend scented products to clean inside the vagina as it can cause irritation and sensitivity, which in turn, can increase the risk of infection.
Be sure to avoid products that contain spermicide, as they can irritate the penis and vagina
Endometriosis
This is a condition that is characterized by a sharp pain in the pelvis or vagina during sex. It occurs when the tissues around the uterus start to grow. The growth can cause inflammation of the cervix, bladder, and the fallopian tube.
Below are some symptoms of the condition
- · Digestive issues
- · Pain during and after sex
- · Irregular bleeding
- · Uncomfortable cramps
While Endometriosis presently doesn’t have a cure, there are some treatments that can help reduce the pain associated with it.
Final note
Sex ought to be a pleasurable and exciting experience, not a painful one. Any of the above reasons may be the cause of the pain you are experiencing after sex. Applying the suggestions in this article may help address some of them. Be sure to consult your doctor if the pain is severe.