If sex hurts, you are not alone. Three out of four women will have pain during intercourse at some point in their lives. The location of pain can vary from woman to woman. It could be in the vagina or vulva. For some women the pain is inside their pelvis, too. Sometimes sex is uncomfortable because you’re simply not aroused enough, or you may have a vaginal infection or a skin condition, like allergies or psoriasis. However, pain during sex can also be a sign of serious conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, fibroids, ovarian cysts, or cancer. So, if you are experiencing pain with every sexual encounter see your doctor to rule out any serious health issues that could be causing it. Once you’ve gotten the all clear from a GYN we have some tips to help ease the pain so you can get back to enjoying every sensation.
Use it or lose it
Sex involves a lot of muscles, and just as with any other muscle in your body neglecting your sexual muscles can cause pain and soreness once you start to use them again. Frequent sexual activity can help stretch and strengthen muscles and increase blood flow and lubrication. I’ve you’ve been letting your lady parts collect cobwebs and getting your pipes cleaned was a rather uncomfortable experience start slower, just like you would with a workout. Start with sensual massages, oral, or even mutual masturbation to get your lady bits working as they should be again. Make sure to make time for sex! Empty your bladder and take a warm bath before hand to make sure you are fully relaxed and then get to work on working out! Just as you would with sore legs, don’t be afraid to apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to your vulva to relieve any burning or pain your workout may have caused.
Lube
Learn to love lube! Non-hormonal vaginal lubricants and moisturizers may help reduce friction and pain during intercourse. Your best choice if you experience vaginal irritation or sensitivity will be a water-soluble lube. However, if you think your pain is caused by dryness silicone-based lubricants last longer and tend to be more slippery than water-soluble lubricants. Do not use petroleum jelly, baby oil, or mineral oil with condoms. They can dissolve the latex and cause the condom to break.
Foreplay is paramount
I know I know we mention the importance of foreplay at least once a week, but that is because it can be one of the most important parts of sex. Extending foreplay will increase moisture in the vaginal tissues before intercourse. Try switching positions and experiment with different ways of being intimate. And as always communicate with your partner speak up about what does and doesn’t feel good. Start off with what feels fabulous and work your way back up to those positions and activates you used to love but may be uncomfortable now.
If all else fails invest in lidocaine! This can be a great help when applied before and after sex while getting used to using your vajayjay again. Hopefully these tips will turn your sex from painful to pleasurable!
