Pain with Intercourse: It’s Not Normal
As a pelvic floor physical therapist, I often encounter patients who believe that pain during intercourse is a normal part of life.
This misconception can prevent individuals from seeking the help they need, leading to prolonged discomfort and diminished quality of life.
In this blog, I will explore why pain with intercourse is not normal, the factors contributing to this condition, and how pelvic floor physical therapy can offer effective solutions.
Understanding Painful Intercourse
Painful intercourse, medically known as dyspareunia, is characterized by persistent or recurrent pain during vaginal penetration. It affects a significant number of individuals, with studies indicating that between 8% and 21% of women in the U.S. experience this condition.
Despite its prevalence, many people suffer in silence, believing that pain during sex is an inevitable part of life.
Why Some Think Painful Intercourse Is Normal
Several factors contribute to the misconception that painful intercourse is normal:
Cultural Taboos: Discussions about sexual health are often stigmatized, leading individuals to suffer in silence and assume their experiences are unique or shameful.
Lack of Education: Many are not educated about sexual health and pelvic floor function, leading to misunderstandings about what constitutes normal sexual experiences.
Misleading Education: Some individuals report that their concerns are dismissed by healthcare providers, leading to a lack of proper diagnosis and treatment. Being told to “have a glass of wine and relax” prior to intercourse is not a solution to the problem and is often a dismissive remark.
Why Painful Intercourse Is Not Normal
Experiencing pain during intercourse is not a normal or healthy part of sexual activity. It often indicates an underlying issue that requires attention.
Common causes of painful intercourse include:
Pelvic Floor Muscle Dysfunction: Overactive or tight pelvic floor muscles can lead to pain during penetration. These muscles may become tense due to stress, trauma, or injury, making sexual activity uncomfortable.
Vaginal Dryness: Insufficient lubrication, often due to hormonal changes during perimenopause/menopause or breastfeeding, can cause friction and pain during sex.
Infections and Medical Conditions: Conditions like yeast infections, pelvic inflammatory disease, or endometriosis can lead to inflammation and pain during intercourse.
Psychological Factors: Stress, anxiety, and past trauma can contribute to muscle tension and heightened pain perception, creating a cycle that exacerbates the condition.
How Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Can Help
Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialized treatment approach that addresses the underlying causes of painful intercourse.
Pelvic floor physical therapy can include:
Manual Therapy: Techniques such as myofascial release and intravaginal massage can help release trigger points in muscles and improve blood flow to the pelvic region.
Biofeedback: This method helps individuals become more aware of their pelvic floor muscles, teaching them how to relax and contract these muscles appropriately.
Exercise Programs: Tailored exercises can strengthen and relax the pelvic floor muscles, improving overall function and reducing pain.
Education and Support: Providing information about pelvic health and sexual function empowers individuals to take control of their health and seek appropriate treatment. Examples of this type of education include the best lubricant for each patient, how to best position your body for optimal relief, and devices that aid in limiting pain and thus breaking that pain cycle.
Seeking Help
If you are experiencing pain during intercourse, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider. Pelvic floor physical therapists are trained to assess and treat conditions related to the pelvic region. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life.
Remember, pain during sex is not something you have to endure. Help is available, and effective treatments can restore comfort and confidence in your sexual health.
Looking for pelvic floor physical therapy in Jacksonville Beach, FL?
If you’re looking for personalized, one-on-one sessions to address your pelvic floor concerns, we provide pelvic floor physical therapy services to women in the Jacksonville Beach area.
If you’re looking for providers who will listen to you and help you get to the root cause of your pelvic health concerns, we’ve got you. We’re here to help you if you’re experiencing pelvic pain, pelvic heaviness, leaking, or are pregnant/postpartum and want to continue safely working out/running/lifting during your pregnancy and get back to your sport after birth.
Get started today by booking a discovery call.
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