What is painful intercourse?
As the name implies, painful intercourse is when you experience discomfort or pain while having sex. The condition, which is called dyspareunia, may occur before, during, and after intercourse, and its effects can go far beyond the pain itself, creating intimacy problems in your relationship and even causing self-esteem issues.
Because women’s sexual health has long been overshadowed by men’s sexual health, the issue received little attention, causing many women to simply suffer in silence. Thanks to the efforts of gynecologists like Dr. Williams, new light is being shed on the problem and treatments are now available that allow you to lead an active and enjoyable sex life.
What are the symptoms of painful intercourse?
While the answer to this question may seem obvious, in fact, when, where, and how you experience pain makes a big difference in how Dr. Williams approaches the issue. The most common symptoms of painful intercourse include:
- Pain during initial penetration
- Pain throughout intercourse
- Deep pain during thrusting
- Burning pain
- Throbbing pain that lasts after intercourse
Dr. Williams provides a relaxed and comfortable environment in which you can discuss your symptoms, allowing him to recommend the best course of treatment.
What causes painful intercourse?
The main culprit behind painful intercourse is menopause. This transition into your post-reproductive years often leads to thinning vaginal walls and the loss of lubrication.
If menopause is still years away and you’re experiencing painful intercourse, you may have one of the following problems:
- Infection
- Structural defect
- Lack of lubrication due to an absence of adequate foreplay
- Lack of lubrication brought on by certain medications or treatments, such as chemotherapy
- Gynecologic problems, including fibroids, cysts, or pelvic inflammatory disease
- Psychological issues
Whatever the cause, rest assured that Dr. Williams works with you to solve the underlying problem.
How is painful intercourse diagnosed and treated?
If you’re experiencing painful intercourse, Dr. Williams performs a complete evaluation in which he:
- Reviews your symptoms
- Performs a pelvic exam
- Conducts appropriate diagnostic tests
Once he zeroes in on the problem and reaches a diagnosis, Dr. Williams treats it accordingly with:
- MonaLisa Touch laser treatments to stimulate tissue health
- Hormone replacement therapy to restore vaginal health
- Medications or procedures that address the underlying problem
Dr. Williams works with you until a satisfactory solution is found, enabling you to enjoy intimate relations again.
Don’t suffer painful intercourse in silence. Call Dr. Fred A. Williams, MD, in Paris, Texas, or use online booking to schedule an appointment today.
