Both men and women can experience pain during sexual intercourse, although it is much more common in women. When a woman experiences painful sexual intercourse associated with vaginal penetration, this is known as dyspareunia.
Pain during intercourse can occur externally, that is, affecting the vaginal opening, or internally within the uterus.
In men, dyspareunia typically occurs during ejaculation. These situations are usually caused by infections in the urethra, seminal vesicles, and/or prostate.
Read the full article on: Why does pain during sexual intercourse, or dyspareunia, occur? ( 51).
By Andrea Rodrigo B.Sc., M.Sc. (embryologist) and Marta Barranquero Gómez B.Sc., M.Sc. (embryologist).
Last Update: 05/04/2026