$Unique_ID{BRK01634}
$Pretitle{Genitourinary System}
$Title{Pain During Intercourse}
$Subject{sex pain dyspareunia causes treatment}
$Volume{J-14}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Pain During Intercourse


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QUESTION:  I guess I am a late bloomer, but now at age 34, I have married for
the first time.  But each time we make love, I experience severe pain, that
interferes with the act.  What could be wrong with me?  Can you help?

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ANSWER:  Believe me, you are not alone with this problem.  The number of women
suffering from dyspareunia--pain during intercourse--seems to be increasing
across the United States.
     The causes of this problem range from viruses and infections, to
physical, emotional and psychological factors.  Perhaps the best way to begin
to track the cause of your problem is to go to a physician who you can confide
in and get a complete exam.
     Your doctor will need to know when the pain begins.  If it hurts the most
on entry or deep penetration, your dyspareunia might be the result of
adhesions, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease or a tumor.
     If the pain is superficial, it might be caused by hymenal strands or lack
of vaginal lubrication.  General diseases such as herpes, chlamydia, syphilis
and gonorrhea can cause an inflammation of the vagina leading to painful
intercourse.  There is also a condition in some young people called
vaginismus--which involves an involuntary spasm of the pubococcygeal muscle.
This spasm can sometimes make penetration extremely painful or even
impossible.  For older women, the physical changes after menopause sometimes
leads to pain during intercourse.
     Fortunately, most of these problems can be treated with medication.  Some
cases can be cured very quickly, with the use of a lubricant such as K-Y
lubricating jelly or lubafax.
     If physical causes are ruled out and the pain persists, perhaps there is
a chance you are overstressed or that you need more foreplay before
penetration.  The problem in newlyweds can sometimes be attributed to the fear
of sexual intimacy.  In longer relationships, loss of sexual intimacy could be
a sign of a failing relationship.
     From the descriptions in your letter however, I suspect your problems
will be easily solved, and are not caused by any of the more serious
conditions I've included to make this a complete answer so that all may learn.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
