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Dyspareunia

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Dyspareunia, also known as painful intercourse, can occur for reasons that range from structural problems to psychological concerns. Many women have painful intercourse at some point in their lives. Dyspareunia is persistent or recurrent genital pain that occurs just before, during or after intercourse.

If you have painful intercourse, you might feel:

  • 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

There are many options available to help with painful intercourse including medications, vaginal application of estrogen, and other compounded therapies. There are certain nonmedication therapies also might help with painful intercourse such as:

Desensitization therapy

You learn vaginal relaxation exercises that can decrease pain.

Counseling or sex therapy

If sex has been painful for some time, you might have a negative emotional response to sexual stimulation even after treatment. If you and your partner have avoided intimacy because of painful intercourse, you might also need help improving communication with your partner and restoring sexual intimacy. Talking to a counselor or sex therapist can help resolve these issues.

Cognitive behavioral therapy

This can be very helping changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. If you have recurrent pain during sex, call our office and make an appointment to speak with Dr. Pezzella and her staff. Treating the problem can help your sex life and your self-image.

Medications for Dyspareunia

Visit these links to learn more about dyspareunia and treatment options, including medications

To find out what may be write for you, Dr. Pezzella will perform a thorough evaluation and examination and determine what suits your individual needs.