Vaginal Pain During Sex: What to Know

Pain at the opening may be linked with dryness, skin inflammation, involuntary pelvic-floor tightening, or vulvodynia. Deeper pain may occur with endometriosis, ovarian endometrioma, or pelvic inflammatory disease. Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause can cause dryness and fragile tissues after hormonal changes. Lichen Sclerosus can affect the vulval skin. The timing, depth, triggers, discharge, bleeding, and menstrual pattern help guide evaluation.

Pause penetration when pain starts and use clear communication with your partner. A suitable lubricant and more time for arousal may reduce friction; avoid scented products that irritate vulval skin. Keep a brief record of when pain occurs and whether it is linked to periods, urination, or certain positions. A clinician may examine the vulva and pelvis, test for infection, and recommend pelvic-floor therapy or condition-specific treatment. Laparoscopic Excision of Endometriosis is one treatment that may be considered for selected endometriosis-related pain.

Book an assessment if pain is new, recurrent, worsening, or affecting intimacy. Seek urgent care for severe pelvic pain, fever, vomiting, faintness, heavy bleeding, or pain with a possible pregnancy. Prompt review is also appropriate when pain comes with sores, unusual discharge, or concern about a sexually transmitted infection.

Ask whether the pain seems superficial or deep, which examination or tests are useful, and whether pelvic-floor treatment, lubricant advice, or another therapy fits the likely cause.