Painful Intercourse: Treatments and Drugs
Treatment options for dyspareunia vary depending on what the underlying cause is.
Medications
If medical conditions or infections are the contributing factors, then by treating the underlying cause your problem could be eliminated. Also, if you are on medication that is known to cause insufficient lubrication in women, changing these drugs could be the key to resolving your symptoms. For most women who are postmenopausal, painful intercourse is often due to inadequate lubrication as a result of low estrogen levels. This is commonly treated using topical estrogen, which is directly applied to their vaginas
Therapy
In some scenarios, various types of therapy could be helpful. These include:
- Counseling or sex therapy
If you have been suffering from painful sex for a long time, then it is highly likely that despite getting treated, you will still have negative emotional response towards sexual stimulation. Additionally, if you and your partner have been avoiding intimacy due to dyspareunia, then you’ll probably require help in improving your communication to successfully restore the sexual intimacy in your relationship. In such cases, seeing a sex therapist or a counselor could greatly assist in resolving these problems and improve your sex life. - Desensitization therapy
In this form of therapy, you are taught vaginal relaxation exercises which can substantially decrease pain during intercourse, by helping you to have better control of your vaginal muscles. Your therapist may recommend Kegel exercises (pelvic floor exercises) or other techniques designed to decrease pain during sex. - Cognitive behavioral therapy
In cognitive behavioral therapy, your therapist guides you on how to gradually change negative behaviors and thought patterns that could be contributing to your painful experiences during sex.
Home Remedies and Lifestyle Changes
In some situations, making a few changes in your sexual routine could help you and your sexual partner minimize pain during sex.
Communication
Talking openly about your experience is usually the first step in the right direction. Let your partner know what feels good for you and what does not. Sometimes, all it takes is for your partner to go slow.
Don’t rush
While having sexual intercourse, take your time. Prolonged foreplay almost always helps to stimulate your natural lubrication. It also helps in reducing pain by delaying penetration until the woman is fully aroused.
Switch positions
Trying different positions can also be of great help. For instance, try being on top for a change. This way, you will be in more control, and can easily regulate the depth of each penetration to what is comfortable enough for you.
Use lubricants
Lastly, consider using a lubricant when having sex. For better results, try different brands to find the one that is perfect for you.
Coping Mechanisms
If vaginal penetration is still very painful, it is advisable that you and your partner seek alternative ways of being intimate. Consider activities such as kissing, giving each other sensual massages or even mutual masturbation. You may just be surprised by how much more these alternatives are fulfilling in comparison to your usual routine.