Why Does Sex Hurt? Common Causes and What You Can Do About It

Pain during sex can be frustrating and even isolating for women. It can make you feel less confident in the bedroom and begin to impact your relationships.

Painful sex, also called dyspareunia, can have many causes – some temporary, others more persistent. If this is something you are dealing with, know that you are not alone, and it can get better. 

At Craig Ranch OB/GYN in McKinney, Texas, our board-certified OB/GYNs understand how deeply this issue can affect your life. We provide various gynecological services to help identify the cause of your pain and find real solutions.

Why Does Sex Hurt?

Pelvic pain during intercourse can happen for many reasons, and sometimes more than one factor is involved. Some of the most common causes include:

• Vaginal Dryness: Menopause, breastfeeding, or certain medications like birth control pills can reduce natural lubrication, making sex uncomfortable.
• Infections: Yeast infections, UTIs, or other vaginal infections can cause irritation and soreness.
• Pelvic Floor Tension: Tight or weak pelvic muscles may lead to pain, often linked to stress, childbirth, or medical conditions.
• Endometriosis or Fibroids: These conditions can cause deep pain due to inflammation or pressure on nearby organs.
• Vaginal Changes After Menopause: Lower estrogen levels can make vaginal tissue thinner, drier, and less elastic.
• Emotional Factors: Anxiety, stress, or past trauma can sometimes play a role in discomfort during sex.

If pain during sex is ongoing, talking to a doctor can help you find answers and relief.

What Can Help?

The right treatment depends on the cause of your pain, but several options may help:

• Lubricants & Vaginal Moisturizers: Over-the-counter products can ease dryness and irritation.
• Pelvic Floor Therapy: A specialist can help relax or strengthen pelvic muscles to improve comfort.
• Medication or Topical Treatments: Prescription treatments can help relieve infections or inflammation.
• Minimally Invasive Procedures: If fibroids or endometriosis are causing pain, options like laparoscopic surgery, myomectomy, or endometrial ablation may provide relief.
• Counseling or Therapy: Addressing stress, anxiety, or past trauma with a professional may help improve physical comfort.

See a Doctor for Professional Help

Sex should not be painful. If discomfort is keeping you from enjoying intimacy, do not ignore it. The team at Craig Ranch OB/GYN in McKinney, TX, is here to help. Call 214-544-6600 to schedule an appointment and get back to feeling like yourself again.