Sexual Pain Disorders
Updated:Sexual pain disorders are a group of conditions characterized by persistent or recurrent genital pain that occurs just before, during, or after sexual intercourse. These disorders can affect people of all genders, though they are more commonly reported in women. The pain experienced can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that prevents sexual activity altogether.
Additional Information
There are several types of sexual pain disorders, including vaginismus (involuntary tightening of vaginal muscles), dyspareunia (pain during intercourse), and vulvodynia (chronic pain or discomfort around the opening of the vagina). These conditions can have various causes, including physical factors (such as infections, hormonal changes, or nerve damage) and psychological factors (like anxiety, past trauma, or stress).
Treatment for sexual pain disorders often involves a multidisciplinary approach, combining medical interventions, physical therapy, and psychological counseling. It's important for individuals experiencing persistent sexual pain to consult with a healthcare provider, as these conditions are treatable and should not be ignored or considered normal.
Examples
A woman experiencing sharp pain during penetration may be diagnosed with dyspareunia
A man feeling burning sensations in the penis after ejaculation might be dealing with a form of sexual pain disorder