Why Does It Hurt During Penetration?
Wondering why does it hurt during penetration? Firstly, sex is not supposed to hurt. Painful sex is however more common than you think but this does not mean it should be considered normal. Soreness and discomfort every now and then may be nothing to worry about, but intense chronic pain should prompt you to consult a medical professional as soon as possible.
Vaginal dryness is the number one cause of painful sex in menopausal and post-menopausal women. There are however perimenopausal women who also complain about it. Apart from making sex a painful experience, dryness can also result in infections since it causes an imbalance in the good bacteria inside the vagina. An infection in turn will also result in painful intercourse.
Yeast, bacterial and sexually transmitted infections can cause pain during sex. The most common signs and symptoms of such infections include but are not limited to a foul vaginal odor, yellow to green colored discharge and sores, bumps or blisters in or around the vagina.
Sexually transmitted infections can be prevented by the use of a condom during sex. It is however crucial that a condom is used correctly and every single time during intercourse. It is also important to use the correct lubricant in conjunction with the condom since certain lubes can lead to disintegration of the condom material.
Another possible cause of pain during intercourse is ovarian cysts. These cysts are fluid-filled sacs located on the ovaries that can cause pain when then rupture.
Fibroids are also often to blame for pain during sex. Fibroids are non-cancerous growths located on the uterus. These growth can cause severe pelvic pressure and painful intercourse.
The root of the pain can also come in the form of pelvic floor dysfunction. This pain will occur when the pelvic floor muscles become too tight. This will result in an aching pelvis and pain during insertion of the penis, fingers or a sex toy.
Lack of sexual arousal can also lead to pain during sex since the vagina will not be naturally lubricated. This is the reason why foreplay is so crucial. Discuss the need for proper foreplay subtly with your partner.
Believe it or not but pain during sex is not just limited to women. Common causes of painful sex in men include but are not limited to infections like thrush which can cause soreness and some sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis. A tight foreskin can also make penetration very painful since tears in the skin can cause a sharp sting. Inflammation of the prostate gland (prostatitis) can also make intercourse very uncomfortable.
Apart from physical problems or illness, a psychological issue may also manifest itself in the form of pain during intercourse.
Persistent pain or discomfort during sex should not be ignored. Don't be embarrassed to discus the problem with a doctor or registered nurse. If left untreated some diseases and infections can result in a loss of life.