Dyspareunia is the medical term for pain during sexual intercourse. For many women, this condition can be confusing, frustrating, and deeply isolating. But you’re not alone—and there are effective treatments available that don’t involve surgery or long-term medications.
What Is Dyspareunia?
Dyspareunia refers to persistent or recurrent pain in the genital area before, during, or after sexual activity. It can feel like burning, stabbing, tightness, or a deep ache. This pain might happen at the entrance of the vagina (superficial) or deeper inside (deep dyspareunia).
What Causes It?
Common causes include:
- Pelvic floor muscle tension or spasm
- Vaginal dryness or hormonal changes (e.g., menopause)
- Endometriosis or other gynecological conditions
- Scars from childbirth or surgery
- Emotional stress, anxiety, or trauma
Sometimes, the cause is a mix of physical and emotional factors.
You Are Not Alone
Studies show that nearly 8% to 22% of women experience dyspareunia at some point in their lives, yet many do not seek help due to shame or fear of being dismissed.
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy: A Safe and Effective Solution
- Pelvic floor physiotherapy has emerged as one of the most effective, non-invasive treatments for dyspareunia.
- Pelvic physiotherapists are trained to assess and treat muscles and tissues in the pelvic region that may be contributing to your pain.
What Does Treatment Involve?
- Gentle internal or external muscle release techniques
- Breathing and relaxation strategies
- Education about sexual function and pain pathways
- Exercises to improve muscle coordination and reduce tension
What Does the Science Say?
A high-quality randomized controlled trial by Morin et al. (2017) showed that 10 weeks of pelvic floor physiotherapy significantly reduced pain and improved sexual function in women with provoked vestibulodynia (a form of dyspareunia).
Another RCT by Bergeron et al. (2001) found that pelvic floor therapy was more effective than general supportive therapy for women with pain at the vaginal entrance.
These are just two examples from a growing body of evidence proving that physiotherapy works—and can help you reclaim your comfort and confidence.
When to Seek Help
If pain during intercourse is affecting your physical, emotional, or relational well-being, it’s time to speak up. You don’t have to suffer in silence. A pelvic floor physiotherapist can guide you toward healing with compassion and expertise.
References:
Bergeron, S., Binik, Y. M., Khalifé, S., Pagidas, K., Glazer, H. I., Meana, M., & Amsel, R. (2001). A randomized comparison of group cognitive–behavioral therapy, surface electromyographic biofeedback, and vestibulectomy in the treatment of dyspareunia. Pain, 91(3), 297–306. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0304-3959(00)00448-5
Morin, M., Carroll, M. S., Bergeron, S., & Dumoulin, C. (2017). Pelvic floor muscle function in women with and without provoked vestibulodynia: A prospective case-control study. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 14(11), 1381–1389. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsxm.2017.09.002
