Dyspareunia

Dyspareunia is the medical term for painful intercourse which is defined as persistent or recurrent genital pain that occurs just before, during, or after intercourse. If infection or a medical condition contributes to pain, treating the underlying problem may resolve the issue. For most postmenopausal women, dyspareunia is caused by inadequate lubrication resulting from low estrogen levels. Often this can be treated with topical estrogen applied directly to the vagina. 


Other therapies include desensitization therapy and counselling or sex therapy. Desensitization therapy teaches the patient vaginal relaxation exercises that can decrease pain. Kegel exercises are also recommended to strengthen the pelvic floor. Counselling or sex therapy examines negative emotional response to sexual stimulation.