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Dyspareunia is physical pain experienced by women upon vaginal penetration during sexual intercourse. The pain may occur before, during of after penetration. It has been estimated that approximately 1 in 5 women suffer from dyspareunia.
The pain associated with dyspareunia is divided into different categories, based on where the pain is located. When it comes to superficial dyspareunia, the pain is located around the opening of the vagina, whereas pain associated with deep dyspareunia occurs deep within the vagina.
Causes may vary depending on the area where the pain is located.
Pain located around the opening of the vagina may be the result of:
Causes associated with deep dyspareunia include:
Luckily, most of the causes are reversible.
Psychological factors can sometimes be associated with dyspareunia. Depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, loss of sexual desire and psychosexual trauma for example, may lead to dyspareunia.
Pain may vary from one woman to another. Also, it may occur with every penetration or only under certain circumstances, and may or may not be present with every partner. Dyspareunia can develop in women who are already sexually active. The pain itself has been described as sharp, burning, cutting or irritating. The apprehension of pain causes many women to involuntarily contract their pelvic muscles during intercourse which may worsen the pain.
For a doctor to properly diagnose this condition, they must know the following:
Afterwards, the physician will perform a gynaecological examination. Unfortunately, countless women will never be diagnosed or treated because they are too embarrassed to speak to a doctor about this issue.
Treatment varies based on the cause of the pain. Treatment may consist of treating a vaginal or bladder infection, or using a vaginal lubricant. It is therefore important to be properly diagnosed.
If you have any questions, do not hesitate to speak to your pharmacist.
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The patient information leaflets are provided by Vigilance Santé Inc. This content is for information purposes only and does not in any manner whatsoever replace the opinion or advice of your health care professional. Always consult a health care professional before making a decision about your medication or treatment.