Pain during sex? You're not alone

Pain during sex is quite common for women, and it can have a huge impact on your relationship. Unfortunately, little research has been done in the area and we're far from understanding exactly why this is the case.

Pain during sex can be caused by a number of things including a lack of lubrication, childbirth and nervous system disorders 

Vulvodynia, which causes itching, stinging and burning around the entrance of the vagina, is one of the most common causes of the problem. 

Celebrity doctor Mehmet Oz says the following about vulvodynia on his show: "The pain of vulvodynia can occur unprovoked or it can be triggered by direct contact. It can be constant or intermittent, mild or excruciating, and it can last for six months or longer. Childbirth, physical trauma, past surgery, scarring, and certain neurological conditions are known to activate vulvodynia."

Nobody knows the actual cause of the problem, says Oz, but it's thought that nerves in the vulval region might be overstimulated or even entangled for genetic or hormonal reasons, causing pain. Still, even though information on the syndrome is scant, there are ways to manage this type of pain no matter the cause. 

Experts suggest a "multi-modal" approach to treatment 

In other words, there is no single "cure" but combining different therapies can help you manage the pain and the effect it has on your life. Alongside a medical doctor you might see a physical therapist, a massage therapist and a psychotherapist, too, to help you deal with the physical and emotional effects of vulvodynia and its impact …

For full article see http://all4women.co.za/health/pain-during-sex-you-re-not-alone.html

 

 

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