Wife says it hurts during sex. The good news is that vuvlovaginal atrophy is very treatable. I try to bear with the pain so I can please him but sometimes its too much. About 30 percent of women report pain during vaginal intercourse, according to a 2015 study in the Journal of Sexual Medicine which Aug 3, 2011 · Vaginal dryness after or during menopause can also cause pain with sex. Dec 8, 2017 · It might be a UTI — and the reason a UTI would hurt during sex is because the entrance to the bladder, which can get inflamed from bacteria, is so close to the vagina, says Dardik. Possible causes of pain during sex are problems with your uterus (womb Sep 27, 2024 · Do you feel "my wife never initiates intimacy"? No doubt you're frustrated. Mar 18, 2025 · For those with chronic pelvic pain, painful periods, or deep pain during sex, it’s worth exploring conditions like endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment. Sep 8, 2017 · When sex hurts, women often feel alone—but they’re not. You don’t have to accept that it’s just your fate in life to have painful sex. See full list on healthline. If you are experiencing painful sex, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Sep 7, 2020 · Painful intercourse, also known as dyspareunia, covers a wide range of problems with a variety of solutions. Although this problem can affect men, it is more common in women. There are numerous causes of dyspareunia, many of which are treatable. When something is painful, we typically don’t want to keep doing it and therefore when sex is painful, sexual desire plummets. To prevent discomfort, many women choose to avoid sex Oct 1, 2018 · When sex hurts and you associate it with fear, anxiety and pain, it's time to seek help. Common causes include the following: vaginal dryness atrophic vaginitis, a common condition causing thinning of Aug 8, 2013 · What causes pain during anal sex? And will it ever go away? Unlike the vagina, the anus doesn’t usually produce enough lubrication for comfortable penetration, so it’s important to use plenty of lubricant. If you’re feeling pain, schedule a checkup to ensure your comfort and gynecological health. Usually, women with painful sex have a clear-cut reason for experiencing discomfort. How Can I Get Rid of Dyspareunia? Knowledge is power, and educating women about the causes and treatments of painful intercourse is an essential part of improving your sex life so it becomes pain-free. Dyspareunia is the medical term for painful intercourse, which impacts 10-20% of women. Find out what causes it and what you can do to stop it. . ) Some estimates suggest that around 15% of women experience some kind of pain during sexual intercourse. Some reasons why women experience painful intercourse explained. Nov 7, 2019 · In the episode, titled “Sex Hurts,” Behringer tells a story that begins when she was 24: She met a man, fell in love, and enjoyed a loving, rewarding sex life with him until one day, on vacation (also in Paris), she experienced a mysterious sharp pain during sex. Sep 12, 2016 · More generally, cervicitis can cause generalized pelvic pain that gets worse during your period, says Abdur-Rahman. It can be a sign that something is wrong. Why does fingering hurt is a common question that many people ask. Feb 28, 2023 · Nearly three out of four women have pain during sex at some time during their lives—and one of these culprits may be the reason sex hurts. Feb 10, 2016 · Pain during sex is more common than you'd think. Feb 13, 2019 · Intimacy with a partner is exciting, but what do you do when that excitement is interrupted by unexplained pain? Pain during sex can be a frustrating and unwelcome guest in the bedroom. Painful intercourse, also known as dyspareunia, is a common May 10, 2019 · What happens is that she will eventually consent but then because I feel guilty I jackrabbit and I can't enjoy it! What can be done to stop the pain she says is there? Is some of it emotional? 2) I like to have sex 'doggy style' more often than I could at the moment because my wife complains that it is painful. Pain with every penetration, including putting in a tampon. Jul 16, 2024 · Sex experts weigh in on what to do if your partner's penis is too big for comfortable penetrative sex, including products to use to make sex feel good. Oct 4, 2024 · Learn the common problems that can lead to pain during or after sex. Dec 11, 2020 · Why you might experience pain while having sex on top and what to do about it. Aug 3, 2011 · Vaginal dryness after or during menopause can also cause pain with sex. Do not carry this burden alone. Genital herpes: Blisters and sores caused by herpes can lead Mar 30, 2018 · Here, experts discuss facts you should know about dyspareunia, or pain during sex. The reason behind this discomfort can vary from person to person, but some of the most common causes include: a lack of lubrication Jun 25, 2024 · Introduction Pain during sex, also known as dyspareunia, is a common issue that many women face. Feb 4, 2020 · Dyspareunia is the term for recurring pain in the genital area or within the pelvis during sexual intercourse. Here are some problems that cause pain during Jan 27, 2023 · You could also try out different positions for oral sex such as with your partner lying down, standing up, on his knees, or sitting. This can be caused by a variety of things, including infection, hormones and emotional reasons. There are several things you can do to reinvigorate “down there”. When sex is painful, it's Oct 11, 2021 · Sex is supposed to feel good for all involved, but when you start to experience pain during intercourse it can create tension between you and your partner. I can't feel it hit anything. And the pain can be near the tip of the vagina (the vestibule), along the side of the vaginal wall Jul 29, 2021 · A sex expert shares 9 ways to make it easier to have sex with a big penis, from using lube to breathing techniques to trying different positions. Treating the problem can help your Mar 11, 2024 · Find out if a penis can be too big. I feel that like my stomach is hurting, which kinda sucks because my boyfriend likes it a lot but its too painful for me. The pain can be sharp or intense. Read on to learn more about causes and treatment options. One of the best treatments doesn't involve medicine! Turns out that the more often you have sex, the less likely you are to develop atrophy or, at the very least, a serious case of it. Sophie*, 27, experiences pain during sex almost every time she has it. If you’ve ever experienced pain during sex—or you’re with a partner who has—this post is for you. Aug 30, 2024 · Also known as dyspareunia, pain during or after sex can impact physical and mental health. Husbands, please go to the doctor with your wife (if she is open to this). Pain during sex happens to women for many different reasons, including physical problems, gynecological conditions, and emotional issues. Today, we’re shedding light on a condition that often hides in the shadows: dyspareunia, or painful intercourse. While pain during sex is common, that doesn’t mean it’s normal. Nov 23, 2018 · It can cause your muscles to tense up, specifically in the pelvic floor, which could lead to physical discomfort during sex, oral sex included, long after an assault occurred. Try these expert-backed tips. Painful sex can have a physical or emotional cause. If you’re experience pain during sex, now’s the time to find out the cause and explore options for pleasurable and pain-free intimacy. You may feel pain externally on your vulva or internally in your vagina, uterus or pelvis. Keep a food diary to assess if certain foods increase your pain. Apr 8, 2025 · Painful sex is far more common during and after menopause than most people realize. Key facts Females of all ages can experience pain or discomfort before, during or after sex. Mar 22, 2025 · Experiencing pain during intercourse is common. Dec 10, 2021 · If you have pain during sex, you’re not alone, says the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Explore the complexities of painful intercourse and how to address it. Amber Savells, MD, an ob-gyn from Baptist Health, shares more. Whether it's due to physical, emotional, or relational factors, this guide offers insights into how to communicate with your partner, seek professional help, and explore ways to enhance intimacy without discomfort. “I have the urge [to have sex], but the pain happens regardless Pain with penetration doesn't discriminate by age, gender identity, or sexual orientation. Pain during sex is a health issue that deserves attention and care. For many women, as estrogen levels decline during midlife, their vaginas become much drier and don't have the same elasticity—the ability to stretch. Here's what you need to know about pain during intercourse and when (and how) you should talk to your doctor. Mar 29, 2019 · The service that you provide is very informative. Here's what can cause burning during or after penis-in-vagina sex. Doggy style is a popular position due to its simplicity and ability to create deep penetration, but it can sometimes be painful for the receiver. (Yup, we mean the bad kind of pain. Robert Killian answered Specializes in General Practice You told us—pain during anal sex can be mind-blowing. Emotions that inhibit arousal and interfere with lubrication can make intercourse painful, especially if those emotions make it difficult to relax. I think we can all agree it sucks when something you and your partner enjoyed is disrupted by pain. What can I do so it doesn't hurt? Dec 17, 2024 · Society normalizes pain during sex – and sufferers rarely talk about it When counseling couples, I typically assess whether either partner experiences any chronic pain. 3 out of 4 women will have pain with sex at some point in their life, so it is actually very common for women to experience Experiencing pain during sex can be distressing for both partners, leading to frustration, anxiety, and a decrease in intimacy. A doctor can address symptoms by treating the underlying cause. Feb 24, 2018 · Penetrative sex can be uncomfortable, but sometimes it really hurtslike I-am-doubled-over-in-pain hurts. Pain during sex is treatable via medication, therapies and, in some cases, surgery. Jun 19, 2020 · Painful sex can be difficult and frustrating for both parties involved, but with the right approach couples can stay connected. The good news is, there are plenty of ways to banish problems in the bedroom and rekindle the fire with your wife. Learn what can make sex feel good again, from home remedies to getting your doctor's help. May 26, 2022 · Feeling pain during sex could be a sign that something is wrong. Jul 1, 2020 · Some people may have more hymenal tissue than others, and stretching it open during your first time having vaginal sex may cause pain or bleeding. They often don’t know Jun 25, 2025 · Why does sex hurt all of a sudden? Find out the answers to your most common midlife intimacy questions, and ask a triple-board-certified OB/GYN your own! Jun 26, 2023 · What is why does fingering hurt? Fingering is a sexual activity that involves inserting fingers into the vagina or anus. Mar 22, 2020 · Sandpaper. ” Here’s what dyspareunia really means, why it happens, and how to get the support your body needs. Discover causes and solutions for improved intimacy. When something is painful, it leads to more clenching, tension, and spasm. Unfortunately, reality doesn't work that way. Some of these issues can be easily solved while others may take more time to heal. Understand the physical and emotional factors behind discomfort during sex. Jun 24, 2019 · By Jodie Dunne, from Bliss for Women What to do if a sexual position you love hurts? 5 tips that may help. It can make sex painful or even impossible. Here, experts explain the possible causes of painful sex and the solutions that can help. Though it is primarily discussed from a woman’s point of view, it can happen to both men and women. Sep 22, 2009 · The result? Soreness, burning after sex, pain during intercourse and, sometimes, post-sex bleeding. ) If the muscles in the anus Feb 1, 2018 · Is his penis too big that it hurts? Learn what to do during sex when your boyfriend's penis is too big and sex is painful. Dec 27, 2018 · The vaginal tissues tend to become less elastic, more fragile, and more susceptible to bleeding, tearing or pain during sexual activity or during a pelvic exam. Medicines or other therapies may help. It’s important to talk to your partner if you are finding sex painful. May 29, 2023 · What is why does doggy style hurt? Why does doggy style hurt is a commonly asked question by many couples during sex. But with a little care, it doesn't have to. Jun 16, 2018 · Sex and pleasure are part of a package deal – it feels good, and that’s one of the reasons we keep doing it! But recent research shows 30% of women are experiencing pain during the act. Feb 15, 2024 · What is it? Pain during or after sexual intercourse is known as dyspareunia. Jul 27, 2017 · After years of experiencing fiery pain during sex due to interstitial cystitis, a physical treatment and a life-changing relationship provided one woman the support she needed to enjoy sex again. Sep 11, 2024 · Pain or discomfort during intercourse is a problem faced by many people. If you are suffering pain during sex, your husband needs to be part of the solution, not a bystander on the sidelines waiting for you to dole out information to him. What Causes Painful Intercourse? All kinds of issues can make penetration hurt. For Sophie, the pain has nothing to do with a lack of desire. However, it’s crucial to recognize that many women experience discomfort during sex that lingers beyond the initial entry. The medical term for this is dyspareunia, which refers to recurring or persistent pain before, during, or after sex, according to the Mayo Clinic. Common STDs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, can cause vaginal irritation, which can create pain during sex. As with any medical problem, be sure and talk with your health care professional. The landmark “Sex In America” survey estimates that sexual pain afflicts 20 percent of Oct 4, 2022 · Sex can be boring or it can be glorious. But painful? Yes, that too. Jun 18, 2021 · If you're experiencing pain during intercourse, there are a number of things you can do to minimize the pain and make sex more pleasurable. Nov 15, 2013 · Is it normal for my husband feel he hitting some thing when we have sex? A doctor has provided 1 answer Dr. Theres too much friction and when their the tip of their penis hits my cervix its the most painful thing ever and I hate it. You Deserve a Pain-Free, Fulfilling Intimate Life Painful intercourse is not something you have to accept as normal. Oct 14, 2024 · Between 25 and 45 percent of postmenopausal women say they have pain during sex. Apr 21, 2018 · There are lots of reasons why sex might be painful after you turn 50. “I have the urge [to have sex], but the pain happens regardless Sep 27, 2019 · Sounds counterintuitive, right? If having sex hurts, how can you have more of it? But eventually it will help, because sex improves blood flow and can increase moisture in your vagina, as well as help stretch and strengthen your pelvic floor muscles. Though the hurt could be a symptom of a serious issue such as endometriosis, more often the cause is less grave. As many as 3 out of 4 women in the United States have reported feeling pain during intercourse at some time during their lives. Apr 25, 2025 · So when sex starts to feel more like a medieval torture scene than a romantic moment, something’s not right. Here are some of the most common sources of pain for wives: Physical pain: Pain, which is headaches, cuts, fibromyalgia, endometriosis, and childbirth pains is the most unrelenting illness. That is what my patients tell me about how their vagina feels during sex after menopause. Feb 23, 2012 · 5. Nov 24, 2021 · Penis-shortening devices that alleviate painful sex are on the rise, but their history stretches back centuries. Find out the causes of painful sex and when you should speak to a doctor. But you don’t have to struggle alone, whether it’s you or your partner who’s hurting. Mar 9, 2024 · Painful sex is something that may affect you as you go through menopause. Technique: Some people feel more comfortable with partial insertion during oral, anal, and vaginal sex. (You can buy lube like KY and Astroglide at most drug stores. We see patients across all life stages, from young adults to post-menopausal individuals, each with their unique experiences and needs. As any couple's therapist can tell you, a variety of problems can arise when Mar 8, 2025 · In this blog, a sex therapist shares practical tips for overcoming discomfort, understanding the causes of pain, and improving sexual health. If you’re worried about feeling discomfort or pain the first time you have sex, you can prepare by slowly stretching your hymen with your fingers. This guide is designed to help partners understand the causes of this pain and provide practical solutions to Jan 26, 2008 · My boyfriend and I have been together for over a year and we have been having sex. Please read the information she is finding. Jun 5, 2025 · Painful sex isn’t “just in your head. Pain during fingering can have several reasons, including insufficient lubrication, vaginal dryness, infection or injury to the genitals. Our approach acknowledges this diversity, ensuring that every patient receives individualized care that respects their personal circumstances and goals. Given the personal and embarrassing nature of seeking help for any sexual problem, it’s highly likely that the actual figures may well be significantly higher than that. The discomfort can be mild or severe and may occur during or after Many women experience pain during sex, or dyspareunia. When the muscles are tight, they are painful. Some only feel the pain during sexual intercourse, others feel it all the time. Feb 16, 2024 · Symptoms If you have painful intercourse, you might feel: Pain only at sexual entry, called penetration. The loss of estrogen can cause urinary problems, which also can make sex uncomfortable. Talk with your doctor for personalized advice. Occasional minor soreness is nothing to be concerned about, but chronic painful intercourse is worth discussing with your doctor. Is that common? Jan 18, 2021 · There's nothing sexy about vaginal dryness. Many women who experience difficulty with penetrative sex feel as though they’re on their own. Some women have discomfort — or worse — during intercourse. She’s with a long-term partner, but painful intercourse is an issue that, for her, has been ongoing for years. Itchy and uncomfortable dryness often causes painful friction during sexual intercourse, making it the ultimate anti-aphrodisiac. But when we do the doggystyle (not anal) its painful for me. Could you shed some light on this issue? Jun 17, 2023 · Painful sex and vaginal dryness are common among post-menopausal women. Common reasons for painful sex include: Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs): Roughly 20 million STIs occur every year in the United States. Apr 5, 2025 · Do you feel pain with deep thrusting during sex? Learn common causes of deep dyspareunia (endometriosis, tilted uterus, ovarian cysts, etc. Feb 2, 2022 · Sophie*, 27, experiences pain during sex almost every time she has it. Understanding Deep Penetration Pain: What You Need to Know Introduction: Intimate topics like painful intercourse, especially deep penetration pain, can be uncomfortable to discuss. Experiencing pain during sex seems like a normal occurrence; nearly 3 out of 4 women say they've had pain during sex at some point in their lives. In addition to the physically painful sex, there is also the possibility of negative emotional effects. Jul 25, 2024 · Dyspareunia is genital pain during or after sexual intercourse. This can be incredibly challenging for couples, impacting intimacy and emotional well-being. When I have sex with my girlfriend and I thrust my penis deep into her body, she says that she can feel it hit something hard inside her body. Apr 17, 2020 · For some women, pain during sex is all too common. Jun 13, 2024 · Vaginal pain varies in sensation and severity, but Dr. As pelvic floor physical therapists, we frequently help patients overcome painful intercourse. Dec 29, 2023 · Typically, patients experiencing pain with intercourse have significant pelvic floor muscle tightness or pelvic floor muscle spasm. May 15, 2012 · Many women suffer sexual pain, chronic genital pain independent of lovemaking, and/or pain during sex. Oct 15, 2024 · Experiencing sharp pain when he thrusts? Discover 10 possible causes and solutions for painful sex. Apr 5, 2015 · Having painful sex can be very traumatic and make future sex even more difficult, so please talk with your doctor about whether this is an option you can safely consider. Treatment involves identifying the underlying cause of the pain. When to see a doctor If you have recurrent pain during sex, talk with your healthcare professional. They don’t have to simply live with the pain. Burning pain or aching pain. So I’ve been with several different guys in my life before and I’ve noticed that having sex with men with a “bigger” penis size (~7 inches and above) hurts way too much for me. com Nov 10, 2024 · Intercourse pain, or dyspareunia, can cause problems in a couple's sexual relationship. Is this normal??? Aug 13, 2018 · In fact, one out of three women (30 percent) experience pain during sex, but many are too embarrassed to tell their doctor about it or try to get help. Sep 12, 2018 · Pain during sex is a common problem for women. While dryness can occur at any point in a woman's life, it is particularly common during perimenopause, when hormonal imbalances cause the vaginal tissues to become thin and secrete less moisture. Feb 22, 2021 · If you're asking "why does it burn when they put it in," you're in the right place. There’s good news though--you don’t have to live that way. Factors like underlying medical conditions or infections can cause painful sex. Pain during sex even has a medical name: dyspareunia. Deep pain during thrusting. This common problem can sap sexual desire and pleasure, strain relationships, Feb 16, 2024 · Pain during sex can happen for many reasons, ranging from physical conditions to emotional concerns. Women with dyspareunia may have pain in the vagina, clitoris or labia. About 75% of all women have pain during sex at some point in their lives. Dec 28, 2022 · If you’re experiencing pain during sex, Morgan advises seeing a doctor when painful sex becomes persistent and interferes with how you interact with your partner and how you feel about yourself. Maybe one of these angles would make you more comfortable with performing oral sex. According to ACOG, pain during intercourse is very common—nearly 3 out of 4 women have pain during intercourse at some time during their lives. If you’re a man asking yourself, “Why does it hurt my wife when we make love?” or a woman wondering why sex has become painful, it’s crucial to understand the potential causes and seek solutions. She is very curious to know what it is that I am hitting. Apr 7, 2017 · Healthful living: Exercise regularly to promote circulation and reduce pain levels. Throbbing pain lasting hours after sex. Thank you for it. Dec 18, 2015 · In an ideal world, every time you had sex would go off without a hitch. Dec 17, 2020 · Here's why the Doggy Style sex position can hurt and what to do about it. Painful sex is not normal, and there are things you can do to make it better. Here’s what you shared in our anonymous pain & sex survey. Painful sex affects most women at some point in their life. Painful sex has many possible causes. If you are experiencing pain or a medical condition that makes sexual activity difficult, share these ideas with your husband. For more information, visit our content on vulvodynia: What does burning during sex mean? and our vulvodynia primer. Learn tips for pleasurable sex, including the importance of lubrication and communication with your partner. Feb 10, 2025 · Experts explain the most common causes of a sore vagina after sex, how to increase vaginal lubrication, and how to prevent and relieve pain after sex . If you find that vaginal sex is often painful, visit your doctor to find out what is causing your pain. Jan 9, 2025 · For many people, pain during sex (dyspareunia) is still a taboo subject; however, a relatively large number of women suffer from it in the course of their lives. May 1, 2012 · Millions of women experience pain before, during, or after sexual intercourse—a medical condition called dyspareunia. Whether it is doggy style or you on top, each to their own. Nov 9, 2024 · Sex can hurt after menopause. Sep 27, 2018 · Does sex ever feel uncomfortable, irritating, or painful for you? We don’t talk about sexual pain often enough, but the reality is that a lot of women experience active discomfort or pain during Nov 26, 2018 · It can cause your muscles to tense up, specifically in the pelvic floor, which could lead to physical discomfort during sex, oral sex included, long after an assault occurred. Regain comfortable intimacy even with deep penetration. Learn more. “It’s particularly bad when [I’m] tense, or not relaxed,” she tells me. Jun 11, 2024 · Painful sex is a common problem for many women. Apr 1, 2023 · Three-quarters of women experience painful sex at some point, and up to six in 10 report painful sex during the transition to menopause and beyond. ) and discover solutions: from changing positions and depth control to medical treatments. When sex hurts, it can leave everyone involved feeling anxious. Striecher says many women describe it as a sharp, stabbing or burning sensation. Doctors at Cedars-Sinai share some of the common causes and solutions. Jan 1, 2025 · Common Sources of a Wife’s Pain Before diving into how to respond, it helps to understand where her hurt may stem from. The causes of dyspareunia can be very different. Find out about the things that can cause this, when to see your doctor, and when a therapist might be able to help. It can occur before, during, or after sexual Mar 30, 2023 · Dyspareunia is the medical term for genital pain that occurs before, during, or following sexual intercourse. Childbirth, menopause, and a condition called hypertonic pelvic floor contribute to many cases of painful sex. May 10, 2021 · Is pain getting in the way of intimacy? Talk with your health care provider if you are experiencing pain during intercourse. Seeing your doctor can gain you access to prescriptions that can alleviate vaginal dryness. Successful treatment depends on finding the right cause and sometimes trying different treatment options. Here’s what may be causing the discomfort and how to make sex more pleasurable. qffdp bpjh jkoliy pbybvx uax crl aasyr zlhv ipkq grvyco