Dyspareunia (Pain with Intercourse)

Dyspareunia or pain during intercourse can occur due to both medical and/or musculoskeletal reasons.  Medically, conditions including (but not limited to) infections, hormonal changes, STD's (sexually transmitted diseases) and dermatologic problems can cause vaginal irriation. However often times the pelvic floor muscles can also be involved causing additional pain with intercourse even after the underlying medical condition has resolved. 

The pelvic floor muscles can become tight or spasmed causing pain with any type of penetration including intercouse, tampon insertion and speculum exam/gynecologic exams.  A physical therapist specializing in pelvic floor pain can evaluate this area and start treatment to improve sexual function.  

 Symptoms of musculoskeletal related dyspareunia can include:

-Pain with direct penis insertion

-Pain/Discomfort with gynecologic exams

-Pain with tampon insertion

-Deep pelvic pain with intercouse

-Throbbing ache after intercourse

-Lower abdominal discomfort with intercourse  

Dyspareunia can occur concurrently with many other diagnoses including:

-endometriosis

-polycystic ovarian syndrome

-Interstitial cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome

-Pudendal neuralgia

-IBS