Occasionally I find sex somewhat painful…like it feels as if it is causing a stomachache or someone is punching me in the stomach. I wouldn’t say I am having “rough” sex but it sure feels that way. Is there ways to prevent this? Is this a larger issue?
Painful intercourse can be from a variety of causes including vaginal dryness, muscle spasm and even endometriosis or other genital pelvic problems. Many medications including, allergy medications and over the counter medications can also cause vaginal dryness. Some women find that just positional changes during intercourse can help minimize the discomfort or pain, so finding a comfortable and pleasurable position is always important.
Pain on intercourse should not be neglected and should always be evaluated with a comprehensive history and physical examination- make an appointment with your gynecologist or general internists. He or she will likely do a complete history and physical examination and sometimes order specific tests like a pelvic sonogram to look at the uterus, ovaries and tubes. Do not assume that the pain will resolve spontaneously — Sexual intercourse should never hurt!
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