#HealthBytes: What causes painful sex and how to cure it
Dyspareunia, or simply pain during intercourse, can be problematic in a couple's sexual relationship. However, the condition has become commonplace. According to a 2015 study, about 30% of women suffer from pain during vaginal intercourse. But it should not be ignored, as it may indicate a more serious health issue. Here are five common causes of painful sex, and how to deal with them.
Not indulging in proper foreplay
The natural fluids in a woman's body start getting into action only once they are appropriately stimulated. This implies that if you skip foreplay and directly rush to intercourse, chances are that your vaginal walls will remain dry, which might lead to pain during the intercourse. Thus, in order to avoid pain during sex, enough and correct foreplay is necessary.
Vaginal dryness
Another common yet largely ignored cause of painful intercourse is vaginal dryness, as it makes penetration uncomfortable. Lack of foreplay, excessively warm showers, and side effects of certain medications or pills are known to cause the condition. If that's the case, using a natural, lubricant (that's free from side-effects) every time you hit the sheets can help avoid pain and soreness during sex.
Certain skin issues may also be responsible
A range of skin disorders can cause ulcers or cracks in the skin of the vulva. Contact dermatitis is one such skin problem caused due to irritating substances, such as perfumed soaps, douches, or lubricants. So, contact your dermatologist if you feel pain or irritation down there. Further, it is advisable to use only natural soaps and lubricants down-under to avoid unwanted side effects.
Stress and depression
If you take stress to the bed, your experience can get ruined, as it will make you disinterested in getting intimate and may also lead to intercourse pain. So, make time for sex only when are ready for it, and not just for the sake of your partner's want. Also, try relaxing activities like massage, long walks, yoga, and meditation to reduce your stress.
Medical conditions: Menopause and STD
Certain medical conditions may also lead to sexual pain. For instance, a woman's body goes through a number of changes during menopause. They include extra sensitivity in the vulva and vagina, and dryness in the vaginal area. Additionally, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) like genital warts, herpes, sores etc. can also turn sexual intercourse painful. In such cases, taking professional medical assistance is recommended.
