Dyspareunia - also known as painful intercourse - is recurrent or persistent pain from sexual activity, caused by biological or emotional factors. According to the American Family Physician, about 10% to 20% of U.S. women will experience dyspareunia at some point in their lifetime.
Factors that can contribute to dyspareunia include:
- Vaginal dryness
- A side effect from drugs such as tamoxifen, raloxifene, antihistamines, anti hypertensives, and allergy medications
- Lack of arousal or lubrication
- Low estrogen, as a result of postpartum, lactation, or menopause
- Atrophic vaginitis
- Endometriosis
- Vulvar vestibulitis
- Psychological trauma
- Past history of sexual abuse or trauma
Women with dyspareunia may experience superficial or deep pain. Symptoms include:
- Pain only at sexual entry (penetration)
- Pain with every penetration, including putting in a tampon
- Deep pain during thrusting
- Burning pain or aching pain
- Throbbing pain, lasting hours after intercourse
