Painful Intercourse: Emotional Factors & Symptoms
Emotions are almost always attached to sexual activities. As such, they can play a significant role in painful sex. Some of these factors include:
Stress
When you are stressed out, your pelvic floor muscles normally tighten in response. As a result, you experience pain during intercourse.
Psychological problems
Psychological issues such as depression, anxiety, fear of intimacy, concerns about your physical outlook, or relationship problems can reduce your level of arousal leading to discomfort or pain during sex.
History of sexual abuse
Most women who experience painful intercourse, don’t necessarily have a history of sexual abuse. However, if you have been abused in the past, this could be a contributing factor.
Symptoms of Painful Sex
For women, the pain can be felt at the vaginal opening, deep in their pelvis, or anywhere in between. If you are suffering from painful intercourse, you’ll probably feel:
- The pain only at entry or sexual penetration.
- Pain with every penetration, that is, even when putting a tampon in.
- New pain after previously pain-free intercourse.
- A burning or aching pain.
- Deep pain during thrusting.
- Throbbing pain, which could last for hours after sexual intercourse.