Pain During Sex: When to Seek Medical Advice

Experiencing pain during sexual activity can be concerning. It's important to understand when this discomfort might signal an underlying health condition that warrants a medical evaluation. What this means Pain during sex, also known as dyspareunia, is not always normal. It can be a symptom of various health conditions. Paying attention to specific details about the pain can help you decide if a doctor's visit is needed. What to observe or prepare Before consulting a doctor, observe and note down details about your pain. Consider: * When it occurs: Does the pain happen during penetration, deep thrusting, or after sex? * Type of pain: Is it sharp, burning, aching, or cramping? * Location: Where exactly do you feel the pain (e.g., vulva, vagina, pelvis, lower abdomen)? * Duration: How long does the pain last? Is it constant or intermittent? * Associated symptoms: Do you experience any other symptoms like unusual discharge, itching, bleeding, painful urination, fever, or abdominal pain? * Impact: How does the pain affect your daily life and sexual activity? What not to assume Do not assume that pain during sex is always normal, a sign of aging, or purely psychological. While stress or anxiety can contribute, persistent or severe pain often has a physical cause that requires medical attention. Also, avoid self-diagnosing or attempting to treat the condition without professional guidance. When to seek help You should consider seeing a doctor if you experience: * Persistent pain: Pain that occurs regularly or doesn't improve over time. * Severe pain: Pain that is intense or debilitating. * Pain accompanied by other symptoms: Such as unusual vaginal discharge, bleeding outside of menstruation, painful urination, pelvic pain, or fever. These could indicate infections or other gynecological issues. * Pain that interferes with your quality of life: If the pain affects your relationships, mental well-being, or ability to enjoy sexual activity. What you can do next If you are experiencing any of the above, schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider. Preparing your observations beforehand can help your doctor understand your situation better. You can book a consultation through TeleHealthCircle to discuss your symptoms with a qualified professional. Sources * https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/pain-during-sex (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists) * https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/painful-intercourse/symptoms-causes/syc-20375967 (Mayo Clinic) What information would be most helpful for you to prepare for a conversation with your doctor about pain during sex?