Pain during intercourse can be a difficult and embarrassing topic to talk about, but it doesn’t have to be. It can be quite common and can have a variety of causes. Even though it might be common this does not mean that it is normal!
In this blog post, we will explore what pain during intercourse can tell us, the causes of painful sex in women, and how to make intercourse more enjoyable for everyone involved. We’ll also discuss the importance of seeing a pelvic floor physical therapist if you’re experiencing pain during intercourse. With the right information, you can take the necessary steps to ensure that you’re having a pleasurable experience.
What Pain Actually Tells Us During Intercourse
Intercourse should be a joyful experience, but for many, it is a pain-filled one. Pain during intercourse can come from a variety of sources, such as friction, pressure, or penetration. Understanding the different types of pain and what your body is trying to tell you can make sex more comfortable and reduce painful sensations.
Let’s discuss the different types of pain that can occur during intercourse and how these can be caused. We will also discuss possible treatments that are available.
Dryness can be a contributor to pain during intercourse. Hormonal changes can create dryness because estrogen levels are low. This is more common when nursing. Did you know Estrogen keeps the vaginal tissues lubricated?
There might be a potential injury. The muscles and nerves that support the pelvic floor have to stretch 10cm for birth. This can create muscle, nerve injury, and lovely perineal tears. OUCH!
Where Pelvic Floor Physical Therapists can help is with tension. The wear and tear of life can create a lot of tension within the tissues holding up your body. Not to mention, if you experienced pregnancy and birth. The body might still be protecting against injury.
How to Make Intercourse More Enjoyable For Everyone Involved
If you’re experiencing any type of pain during intercourse, you might feel hopeless. There are some general tips that you can follow in order to make the experience more pleasurable for all involved.
Steps to make intercourse more enjoyable:
- Pay attention to your body and become familiar with different types of pain you may experience during intercourse
- Use lubrication to reduce friction and discomfort
- Communicate with your partner about discomfort and involve them in finding a solution
- Consult with a doctor or pelvic floor physical therapist to rule out any underlying medical conditions and to find the best treatment for your specific needs
- Take breaks if you’re experiencing intense pain or discomfort and avoid putting any weight on your pelvic area
When it comes time for intercourse, take some time to get aroused before engaging in sexual activity. This may require some experimentation – try different positions and communicate what feels good and what doesn’t to your partner throughout the experience.
If intercourse becomes too painful despite following these tips, take breaks until the discomfort subsides again. Ultimately though communication and understanding between partners is key in ensuring an enjoyable experience no matter what type of pain occurs during intercourse!
Bottom Line
Pain during intercourse is a common experience, but it doesn’t have to be the norm. With the right understanding and knowledge of your body, you can make adjustments to ensure that you and your partner have a pleasurable experience. If pain persists despite these efforts, it is important to consult with a doctor or pelvic floor physical therapist to rule out any medical conditions that may be causing it. By learning more about your body and how to best care for yourself when experiencing pain during intercourse, you can ensure that sex remains an enjoyable experience for everyone involved!
If you have questions about your pelvic floor we offer in person or virtual appointments to help. CLICK HERE!
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