Why sex could hurt (and what you can do about it) | Sex toys

Let’s say that is stronger for people in the back: painful sex is more common than you think. If sex has become painful, know that you are not broken, bizarre or alone – millions of women (or people with vulva) experience discomfort during sex and for a wide variety of reasons. That being said, it is not because it is common that it is not correct or “normal”.

The good news? There are Solutions, and understanding what’s going on is the first glorious step towards the best in your body and in bed.

Here, we offer you 10 common causes of painful sex and suggestions for troubleshooting each case.

1. Vulvodynia

Vulvodynia is a condition of chronic pain that affects the vulva and may have the impression of burn, tingling or believed – sometimes when it is simply affected. The exact cause is still a bit of a medical mystery (not thanks to gender biases in medical research), but it can be linked to nervous inflammation, hormonal changes or even genetics. Sex may have the impression of rubbing glass paper on a sunburn – not at all cute. A specialist in the pelvic floor can help, and treatments range from topical creams to nervous blocks to physiotherapy. Main to remember: No matter what the doctor says, you don’t imagine it, and it’s not “just in your head”.

2. Vaginism

Vaginism is an affection which causes the involuntary tightening of the vaginal muscles – like a tight bridge every time the penetration is attempted. It is often linked to fear, anxiety or past trauma, but it cannot have clear causes either. Spoiler alert: Willpower will not repair it. What can help? Pelvic floor therapy, dilator training and sweet sex and stating that reminds you that your body is not the enemy.

3. Vaginal infections

Breakdown infections, bacterial vaginosis, urinary tract infections or even STIs like chlamydia can give sexual relations to slip into a cactus. These infections cause inflammation, drought and general misfortune. Pay attention to symptoms such as an unusual outing, itching or an odor. A quick visit to your health care provider (and certain drugs) can usually clarify things. Warm tip: for additional support and prevention against infection, take a daily probiotic supplement.

4. Lack of preliminaries

Let’s be real: jump directly into penetration with zero warm -up is like trying to make a cake in a cold oven. Your body needs time and excitement to become juicy, relaxed and ready to party. If the preliminaries are jumped or precipitated, the vagina can remain dry and tight, leading to friction and … hello … pain. So tell your partner to slow it down. Your pleasure deserves the spotlight, not just a cameo.

5. Sexual trauma / SSPT

The past trauma can appear in the body long after the mind says it is “good”. If you have suffered sexual violence or any other violation of limits, sex can trigger fear, dissociation or pain. It is a valid and well -faced trauma response – not a failure. Working with a therapist or sex focused on trauma can change their life – the recommendation of your sensuality can occur on your terms.

6. Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition where fabrics similar to uterine lining grow outside the uterus – often on ovaries, fallow tubes or other pelvic organs – and it can have sex seriously painful. The pain is generally deep, especially during penetration, and can linger long afterwards. Other signs include intense periods, chronic pelvic pain and fatigue. The diagnosis can be delicate and may require a specialist (often a gynecologist with experience in the endo). Treatment options include hormone therapy, pain management and, in some cases, surgery. Do not be afraid to defend hard for your body.

7. Lack of lubricant

A word: lubrication. Not enough of that transforms your pleasure session into a horror show based on friction. Hormones, drugs (such as antidepressants or birth control), stress and even hydration levels can affect natural lubrication. The corrective? Use a good quality water -based lubricant – generally and without excuses. You are no less sexy because you use the lubricant – you are a fucking genius.

8. AMARTH OR incompatible positions

Sometimes it’s not your body at all – it’s the position. Certain positions may ensure that the penis or the toy lower the collar or angle of the angle. The pain here may seem sharp, deep or crampy. Experimenting with angles, pillows and good old -fashioned communication can make all the difference in the world. If a position hurts? You don’t have to “smile and bear it”. You are allowed to say “no” and next.

9. Bad communication (and sex to correspond)

If your partner does not listen, does not ask and does not care about your comfort, it is not only a bad sex – it is a pain recipe. Being tense, bored or emotionally disconnected can tighten or close your body. Open communication, consent and mutual enthusiasm are must. Do not satisfy yourself with partners who treat your body as a destination that they can rush without appreciating the trip.

Conclusion: If sex hurts, it’s your body by waving a red flag – not a sign to ignore. You deserve the pleasure, ease and partners who help you get there. Your comfort and pleasure deserve to be recommended – always

For more support, consult Pelvic Global (a global repertoire dedicated to helping you find pelvic health professionals), Omgyes (for education with science -based pleasure) and Rainn.org (the largest organization of American support for survivors of sexual violence).