Women's Sexual Health
Painful Intercourse
Dyspareunia is treatable. You do not have to endure pain during intimacy -- expert help can restore comfort and pleasure.
Pain During Sex is Not Normal
Many women accept painful intercourse as something they must live with. That is simply not true. Dyspareunia is a recognised medical condition with effective treatments. You deserve pain-free, enjoyable intimacy.
What is Dyspareunia?
Dyspareunia is persistent or recurrent genital pain that occurs just before, during, or after sexual intercourse. It can range from mild discomfort to sharp, burning, or aching pain that makes sex unbearable.
The pain may be superficial (at the vaginal entrance), deep (during penetration), or both. It affects an estimated 10-20% of women at some point in their lives and can significantly impact relationships, self-esteem, and quality of life.
Types of Dyspareunia
Superficial (Entry) Dyspareunia
Pain felt at the vulva or vaginal entrance during initial penetration. Often described as burning, stinging, or tearing sensations.
Common causes: vaginal dryness, vulvodynia, infections, skin conditions, vaginismus.
Deep Dyspareunia
Pain felt deeper inside during thrusting or deep penetration. Often described as a dull ache, cramping, or pressure sensation.
Common causes: endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, ovarian cysts, uterine conditions.
Common Causes
Physical Causes
- Insufficient lubrication due to hormonal changes or inadequate arousal
- Vaginal infections (yeast, bacterial vaginosis, STIs)
- Endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease
- Vulvodynia (chronic vulvar pain)
- Skin conditions (lichen sclerosus, eczema)
- Post-surgical scarring or episiotomy changes
- Menopausal vaginal atrophy
Psychological Causes
- Anxiety and fear of pain creating muscle tension
- History of sexual trauma or abuse
- Relationship stress or emotional disconnection
- Negative beliefs about sex or body image
- Depression affecting sexual response
- Pain catastrophizing (expecting the worst)
Our Treatment Approach
We address the root cause, not just the symptom. Treatment is gentle, personalised, and always at your pace.
Comprehensive Assessment
A detailed history and, when you are ready, a careful physical evaluation to identify the specific type and cause of your pain. No examination is ever performed without your full consent.
Medical Treatment
Targeted medications including topical oestrogen, lubricants, anti-inflammatory agents, or treatment of underlying infections and skin conditions. Hormonal therapy when indicated.
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
Guided exercises to release tension in overactive pelvic floor muscles. Biofeedback and manual techniques to restore normal muscle tone and reduce pain.
Psychosexual Therapy
CBT and mindfulness-based approaches to address fear-avoidance cycles, pain catastrophizing, and emotional factors. Sensate focus exercises to rebuild positive associations with touch.
Couples Communication
Guidance for partners on alternative forms of intimacy, supportive communication, and gradual reintroduction of comfortable sexual activity together.
Why Choose Us
You Deserve Pain-Free Intimacy
Do not suffer in silence. Effective treatment is available, and most women experience significant relief.