What is Dyspareunia? (Pain During Intercourse)

Dyspareunia (dis-pa-roon-ia) is the medical term for pain during intercourse. You may hear your doctor use this word or see it in other written material. Pain during intercourse can be caused by a wide variety of reasons. Examples include an allergic reaction to a personal hygiene product or hormonal changes related to aging. Sometimes, emotional issues may also play a role. Find out more in our brochure "When Making Love Hurts".

The Causes of Pain During Intercourse Include:

Tipped or retroverted uterus - Some women with a tipped uterus experience pain during intercourse. This happens when the penis hits the cervix or uterus during sex. This condition is known as collision dyspareunia.
Endometriosis - The tissue lining the uterus - the endometrium - may grow outside the uterus causing deep pain during sex.
Infection - Bacterial or yeast infections are among the most common causes of pain during intercourse.
Lack of estrogen - During menopause, the vaginal walls thin and the amount of vaginal lubrication decreases.
Vulvodynia - In this condition, the vulva is hypersensitive and extremely tender on touch.
Drug side effects - Common drugs including those for allergy, high blood pressure or depression may affect the amount of vaginal lubrication, as well as the level of sexual arousal and desire.
Physical problems - Scar tissue from abdominal surgery or from delivering a baby can distort the anatomy and cause significant pain during intercourse. A cyst on an ovary can also cause pain.
Pelvic floor myalgia - Pelvic floor muscle spasms are involuntary muscle spasms and can result in difficult and uncomfortable sex.
Emotional issues - Sometimes, past issues such as sexual abuse or communication problems in a relationship can translate into sexual difficulties.

Pain during sex, dyspareunia, may be caused by other reasons as well. Only consultation with a physician or another health care professional will help you find out why you hurt and help you find a solution.