Pelvic Pain During Sex: How Women Can Reduce Their Risk

"Sexual pain can ruin lovemaking. In one study of women's sexual pain, more than half (54 percent) reported loss of libido, fewer rolls in the hay, and more problems working up to orgasms. Few women mention sexual pain to their partners, unless it becomes severe-see my previous post. As a result, few men are aware that their lovers might be suffering pain, and few men ask their partners if sex feels uncomfortable or agonizing."

"In addition, most women who suffer from sexual pain feel reluctant to mention it to psychotherapists, couples therapists, or doctors. Medical schools largely ignore it. Consequently, few internists or gynecologists raise the issue, or are skilled at diagnosing it. One study showed that it typically takes five doctor visits for women suffering sexual pain to receive diagnoses. Few people know the risk factors for sexual pain. That's not surprising. It hasn't been the focus of much research."

About half of sexually active heterosexual women experience significant pelvic pain during intercourse. Pain during sex is not normal except in consensual, scripted BDSM; sex should not hurt. Sexual pain often causes loss of libido, fewer sexual encounters, and difficulty reaching orgasm. Few women tell their partners, so many men are unaware and rarely ask whether sex is painful. Many women hesitate to mention sexual pain to psychotherapists, couples therapists, or doctors. Medical schools largely ignore sexual pain, and few internists or gynecologists raise the issue or are skilled at diagnosing it. One study found diagnosis often takes five doctor visits. Risk factors remain underresearched.

Read at Psychology Today