Dyspareunia

[Becky]

Medical term for painful sexual intercourse. Greek for bad bedfellows.

[Becky]

Dyspareunia is pain when sexual intercourse or other sexual activity that involves penetration is attempted or pain during these activities.

The pain may be superficial or deep.
It may result from vaginal dryness or disorders of the genital organs.
The diagnosis is based on symptoms and a pelvic examination.
Anesthetic ointments, lubricants, exercises to relax pelvic muscles, or a change in the position for intercourse may help.
The cause, if identified, is treated.

The pain may be superficial, felt in the area around the opening of the vagina (genital area or vulva). Or the pain may be deep, felt within the pelvis when the penis or a dildo is thrust further inside. The pain may be burning, sharp, or cramping. Pelvic muscles tend to become tight, which increases the pain, whether it is superficial or deep.
Pain, including dyspareunia, is greatly affected by emotions. For example, minor discomfort may feel like severe pain after a traumatic sexual experience, such as rape. Anger toward a sex partner, fear of intimacy or pregnancy, a negative self-image, or a belief that the pain will never go away may make the pain feel worse.

[Rihanna]

Difficult or painful sexual intercourse.