When Should I Talk to a Doctor About Pain During Sex?

Experiencing pain during sexual activity can be concerning, and it's important to understand when it warrants medical attention rather than dismissing it as normal. What this means Pain during sex, also known as dyspareunia, is not something you have to live with. It can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and may occur at the start of intercourse, during penetration, or after. While occasional, mild discomfort might not always be serious, persistent or intense pain often signals an underlying issue that needs evaluation by a healthcare provider. What to observe or prepare Before consulting a doctor, observe and note down details about your pain. This includes: * When it occurs: Is it before, during, or after sex? Is it with every partner or only certain situations? * Location: Where exactly do you feel the pain (e.g., vulva, vagina, deep in the pelvis)? * Type of pain: Is it sharp, burning, aching, throbbing, or cramping? * Duration: How long does the pain last? * Accompanying symptoms: Do you experience any other symptoms like itching, burning, unusual discharge, bleeding, or urinary issues? * Recent changes: Have you recently started new medications, changed birth control, or experienced any life changes that might be relevant? What not to assume Do not assume that pain during sex is normal, a sign of aging, or something you just have to endure. It is also not always a psychological issue, although stress and anxiety can sometimes contribute. Delaying medical consultation can sometimes prolong discomfort. Do not self-diagnose or rely on unverified information from online forums or social media. When to seek help You should consult a healthcare provider if you experience: * Persistent pain: Pain that occurs regularly or doesn't go away. * Severe pain: Pain that is intense or significantly interferes with your sexual activity or daily life. * Pain accompanied by other symptoms: Such as unusual discharge, bleeding outside of your period, itching, sores, or fever. * Sudden onset of pain: Especially if it's severe and unexplained. What you can do next If you are experiencing pain during sex, schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider. You can use TeleHealthCircle to find and consult with a doctor who can provide a proper evaluation and guidance. Be prepared to discuss your observations openly and honestly. Sources * https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11098264/ * https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10903612/ What kind of information would be most helpful for you to prepare for a conversation with your doctor about pain during sex?