Is Painful Sex Normal?
Intimacy is a crucial aspect of any romantic relationship, fostering emotional closeness and connection. However, for some individuals, the experience can be marred by pain during sex. People can have pain during different times during intercourse and the pain itself may vary. This can lead to emotional and physical stress as well as problems conceiving.
Penetration Pain:
For some, the initial penetration can be uncomfortable or even painful. This may be due to various factors, such as insufficient arousal, dryness, low estrogen or tightness within the external and superficial pelvic floor muscles.
Thrusting Discomfort:
Pain during the thrusting phase may be linked to deeper issues such as pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, scar tissue from tearing, tight or constricted deep pelvic floor muscles or nerve pain.
Soreness and Throbbing:
Post-intercourse soreness and throbbing could be indicative deep pelvic floor muscular pain or neuralgia. It can also present with pelvic organ prolapse of the bladder, rectum or uterus. This pain can last for a few minutes after sex or even up to many hours post intercourse and can be very debilitating.
Postpartum Challenges:
Pain during intercourse is not uncommon postpartum, however it is NOT normal. Some of the reasons for pain include dryness due to low estrogen levels especially someone who may be breastfeeding or pumping. Additionally, someone who may have an episotomy or a tear during delivery may be left with tight and painful scar tissue restricting the vaginal canal opening and the superficial pelvic floor muscles causing pain. Additionally, some people develop tailbone pain as a result of a traumatic delivery that can also cause pain during intercourse.
Pregnancy-Related Pain:
During pregnancy, hormonal changes and physical alterations can make intercourse uncomfortable for some individuals. As the body prepares for childbirth, increased blood flow to the pelvic area and changes in cervical mucus can affect sensitivity. Experimenting with different positions as well as arousal may be helpful during this time
Addressing Pain Through Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy:
Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy that targets the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues in the pelvic area. This therapy can help alleviate pain during intercourse by addressing issues such as muscle tension, weakness, or imbalance. Working with a trained therapist can provide personalized exercises and strategies to improve pelvic health and enhance overall well-being.
