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Female Sexual Dysfunction
Dyspareunia (Painful Intercourse)
Dyspareunia is persistent or recurrent pain during or after sexual intercourse. It can significantly impact sexual function and quality of life.
75%
Success Rate
4-8 weeks for initial improvement; 3-6 months for full resolution
Duration
Multiple
Treatment Options
3+ Groups
May Affect
What is Dyspareunia (Painful Intercourse)?
Dyspareunia is persistent or recurrent pain during or after sexual intercourse. It can significantly impact sexual function and quality of life.
Prevalence: Affects 10-20% of women; increases with age
Symptoms and Signs
- •Pain during penetration (introitus or deep)
- •Pain after sexual intercourse
- •Burning or aching sensations
- •Muscle tension or spasms
- •Anxiety about intercourse
- •Avoidance of sexual activity
Causes and Risk Factors
Common Causes
- →Vaginal dryness or inadequate lubrication
- →Vaginismus (involuntary muscle contraction)
- →Endometriosis
- →Pelvic inflammatory disease
- →Vulvovaginitis or infections
- →Hormonal changes (menopause, postpartum)
- →Pelvic floor dysfunction
- →Sexual trauma or abuse
- →Surgical scarring
- →Medication side effects
Risk Factors
- ⚠️Menopause
- ⚠️Childbirth
- ⚠️Pelvic surgery
- ⚠️Infection history
- ⚠️Sexual trauma
Treatment Options
Expected Outcomes: Good outcomes with physical therapy and education; 70-80% improvement
Available Treatments:
- ✓Adequate lubrication (water/silicone-based)
- ✓Vaginal moisturizers
- ✓Topical estrogen therapy
- ✓Pelvic floor physical therapy
- ✓Dilators and gradual penetration exercises
- ✓Medication for spasms
- ✓Treatment of underlying infections
- ✓Sex therapy and education
- ✓Couples therapy
- ✓Surgical intervention (if anatomical issues)
Prevention Tips
- →Adequate lubrication and foreplay
- →Treatment of infections
- →Pelvic floor exercises
- →Communication with partner
Ready for Professional Help?
Our sexology specialists can provide expert assessment and personalized treatment plans.