Pain During Intercourse: Causes and Solutions for Women

Experiencing a sharp pain during intercourse?

The partner, who is also female, has been engaging in frequent digital penetration over the past two months, approximately three times a week, with each session lasting about three to four hours (usually using two or three fingers).
She regularly trims her nails and has not experienced any discomfort.
However, two weeks ago, when fingers were inserted, she suddenly reported a sharp pain on the left side of the vaginal wall (in a female-on-top position).
They decided to take a break for a week or two, and during their last session yesterday, she reported no discomfort (in a female-on-top position, side-lying, and male-on-bottom position).
This afternoon, there was also no pain during insertion (side-lying), but in the evening, she experienced pain again (female-on-top and male-on-bottom positions), specifically on the left side at certain angles.
The pain occurs only during thrusting; she does not feel any discomfort while urinating or walking.
What could be the cause of this, doctor?

Ze, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/26

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The partner, who is also female, has been engaging in finger intercourse quite frequently over the past two months, approximately three times a week, with each session lasting about three to four hours (usually using two or three fingers).
She regularly trims her nails and has not experienced any discomfort.
However, two weeks ago, when her fingers were inserted, she suddenly reported a sharp pain on the left side of the vaginal wall (with her on top).
They decided to take a break for a week or two, and during their session yesterday, she did not experience any discomfort (with her on top, side-lying, and her partner on the bottom).
This afternoon, there was also no pain during insertion (side-lying), but in the evening, she experienced pain again (with her on top and her partner on the bottom), specifically on the left side at certain angles.
The pain occurs only during thrusting; she does not feel any discomfort while using the restroom or walking.

Recommendation: A vaginal ultrasound and pelvic examination are necessary.

Reply Date: 2017/08/26

More Info

Understanding pain during intercourse can be a complex issue, especially for women, as it can stem from a variety of physical and psychological factors. In your case, the pain experienced on the left side of the vaginal wall during certain positions may be indicative of several underlying causes.
Firstly, it is essential to consider the anatomy involved. The vagina is a muscular canal that can stretch and accommodate various activities, including intercourse. However, if there is any irritation, inflammation, or structural issue, certain movements or positions may trigger pain.
One possible cause of the pain could be related to vaginal muscle tension or spasms. This can occur due to anxiety, stress, or even discomfort from previous experiences. If your partner is tense or anxious, it can lead to involuntary tightening of the pelvic floor muscles, which may result in pain during penetration.
Another factor to consider is the presence of any anatomical abnormalities. Conditions such as vulvodynia (chronic pain in the vulvar area) or vaginismus (involuntary contraction of the vaginal muscles) can lead to discomfort during intercourse. Additionally, cysts or fibroids in the pelvic region can also cause localized pain, particularly during certain movements or positions.

In your specific case, the pain being localized to the left side could suggest a few things. It might be related to ovarian issues, such as an ovarian cyst, which can cause pain that radiates to the vaginal area. Another possibility is pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can occur if there is an infection in the reproductive organs, leading to inflammation and pain during intercourse.
Moreover, hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can also affect vaginal lubrication and sensitivity, potentially leading to discomfort. If your partner is experiencing this pain intermittently, it could be related to her cycle, especially if the pain coincides with ovulation or menstruation.

To address this issue, it is crucial to adopt a multi-faceted approach:
1. Communication: Openly discuss the pain with your partner. Understanding each other's comfort levels and boundaries can help alleviate anxiety and improve the experience.

2. Position Adjustment: Experiment with different sexual positions to find those that minimize discomfort. Positions that allow for shallower penetration may be more comfortable.

3. Lubrication: Ensure adequate lubrication during intercourse. Sometimes, dryness can exacerbate pain, so using a water-based lubricant can help.

4. Relaxation Techniques: Encourage relaxation before and during intercourse. Techniques such as deep breathing, foreplay, or even pelvic floor exercises can help reduce tension.

5. Medical Consultation: If the pain persists, it is advisable for your partner to consult a healthcare provider, preferably a gynecologist. A thorough examination can help identify any underlying conditions that may require treatment.

6. Pelvic Floor Therapy: If muscle tension is suspected, pelvic floor physical therapy can be beneficial. A trained therapist can provide exercises and techniques to help relax the pelvic muscles.

In conclusion, pain during intercourse can arise from various factors, including anatomical, hormonal, and psychological influences. It is essential to approach the situation with care, ensuring open communication and seeking medical advice when necessary. By addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of the experience, you and your partner can work towards a more comfortable and enjoyable sexual relationship.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Pain During Intercourse: Causes and Solutions for Women

Hello, doctor... I would like to ask, what could be the reasons for experiencing pain during intercourse? For the past two years since I became sexually active, everything was fine, but over the past year, I have felt some pain every time I have intercourse. Could this be due to ...

Dr. Zhan Deqin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. There are many causes, some are physiological factors and some are psychological factors. 2. Most cases are due to inflammation, endometriosis, pelvic adhesions, etc. 3. A smaller portion is related to psychological factors, such as work, stress, and irregular lifestyle. 4. It...

Understanding Pain During Intercourse: Causes and Solutions for Women

Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask about an issue I've been experiencing for the past six months. Whenever I have intercourse with my husband, I feel pain as soon as he penetrates. When I check with my fingers, I notice that there are small bumps, like little beans, on the v...

Dr. Lin Zhaopei reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Taking contraceptive pills can have a regulating effect on the menstrual cycle, and this may occur if they are not taken on time or if only emergency contraception is used. The presence of a small bump in the vagina that causes discomfort during intercourse is most likely due to ...

Understanding and Alleviating Pain During Intimacy: A Guide for Couples

I have been married to my husband (32 years old) for over six months, and our relationship is very loving. However, due to our busy work schedules, I often feel fatigued and have a decreased interest in intimacy, engaging in sexual activity only once or twice a month. Each time, ...

Dr. Wang Hanzhou reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
If you experience pain during sexual intercourse, please consult a physician to check for any inflammation, endometrial abnormalities, or other organ issues. If there are no gynecological problems, please ensure that your husband is highly cooperative. As for the frequency, it va...

Understanding Pain During Intercourse: Causes and Solutions for Women

Hello Dr. Chang, my wife and I have been married for over ten years. Throughout this time, my wife has experienced pain during intercourse (the pain primarily occurs inside the vagina, not at the vaginal opening), which has led to a significant decrease in her interest in sexual ...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, Xiao Hong: 1. RU-486 generally does not cause thinning of the vaginal wall; this is mostly congenital. If this were the cause of the symptoms, it would likely have been evident earlier. 2. Clinically, phimosis should not cause these symptoms; urologists are more likely to...