What is dyspareunia?

Dyspareunia, also called coitalgia, refers to the pain that occurs during sexual intercourse. Dyspareunia is more common in women than in men, although it can occur in both sexes.

In men, dyspareunia can appear at the time of ejaculation, affecting both the external and internal part of the reproductive system. On the other hand, discomfort in women usually occurs in the internal part of the vagina, the pelvic area and in the abdomen.

The causes of pain during intercourse are multiple and different depending on sex:

Men

Usually, dyspareunia is caused by an infection in the prostate, bladder or seminal vesicles. Other factors that can cause pain during sexual intercourse are phimosis, abnormal curvature of the penis, etc.

Women

coital discomfort is associated with vaginismus. In addition, women may have dyspareunia if they have pelvic inflammatory diseases, endometriosis, hyperprolactinemia, etc.

Although these are the most common causes of dyspareunia in men and women, the psychological factor should not be forgotten. Therefore, lack of arousal, poor sexual education, having anxiety problems, etc. can also cause painful intercourse.