Painful Intercourse and Vaginal Dryness

By Jasser Thiara, MD

Mid-Atlantic OBGYN

. https://hcavirginia.com/physicians/profile/Dr-Jasser-Thiara-MD

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Painful Intercourse and Vaginal Dryness

Dyspareunia, otherwise known as painful intercourse, is a common problem that many women will face at some point during their lives. Dyspareunia can be defined as persistent or recurrent genital pain that occurs before, during or after intercourse.

The causes of dyspareunia may include structural issues such as insufficient lubrication, injury, trauma or irritation, inflammation, infection, skin disorders such as eczema, certain chronic illnesses such as endometriosis, irritable bowel syndrome, and conditions such as uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts.

Emotional factors such as stress, sexual abuse history, or other underlying psychological issues such as anxiety or depression may also contribute to dyspareunia.

Diagnosing dyspareunia typically includes a thorough medical and surgical history as well as a complete pelvic examination. The treatment options depend on the underlying cause(s) and may include medications that promote lubrication (common in menopausal women), treatment of any underlying medical illnesses or conditions, and counseling or sex therapies.

Vaginal dryness can occur in any patient but most commonly occurs in post-menopausal women. The main cause of vaginal dryness is reduced estrogen levels in the body. Estrogen is a hormone that aids in keeping vaginal tissue healthy by maintaining lubrication, tissue elasticity and acidity. Some common causes of low estrogen levels include breast-feeding, childbirth, nicotine use, cancer treatment, menopause, perimenopause (the time before menopause), ovarian removal surgery and the use of allergy/cold medications. Other causes of vaginal dryness may include certain hygiene measures such as douching. Treatment measures for vaginal dryness include vaginal estrogen creams, tablets or rings, oral medications, vaginal moisturizers and vaginal lubricants.

Dyspareunia or painful intercourse and vaginal dryness are two common gynecological conditions that gynecologists diagnose and treat. If you believe you may be suffering from either one of these, then it is time to talk to a gynecologist, as there are many options available to make your life better.