When Sex Hurts, Don’t Ignore It
If sex is painful, you are not alone—and you are not “broken.” Many women experience discomfort during intercourse, but here’s the truth: painful sex is never normal. It’s your body’s way of signaling that something is off, whether it’s pelvic floor tension, hormonal changes, or even vaginal dryness.
Ignoring it can lead to more than just physical pain—it can impact your confidence, relationships, and overall well-being. Let’s break down the possible causes and what you can do to take back control of your intimate health.
If you are ever unsure of anything, please also reach out to a pelvic health specialist so you can discuss treatments and tools to help alleviate symptoms or deeper issues. You can find one in-person or online on our brand new Pelvic Health Therapist Network.
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Common Causes of Painful Sex
Painful intercourse, also known as dyspareunia, can happen for many reasons. Some of the most common include:
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Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Tight or weak pelvic floor muscles can make penetration uncomfortable. Many women don’t realize the pelvic floor plays a huge role in sexual wellness. Tools like a pelvic floor trainer or a vaginal wand (like the VWELL Spectrum Wand) can help retrain and relax these muscles for pain-free intimacy. -
Hormonal Changes
Drops in estrogen during postpartum, perimenopause, or menopause can lead to vaginal dryness and thinning tissue. This often causes friction and pain. Vaginal moisturizers or suppositories can help restore natural balance. -
Infections or Irritation
Conditions like yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, or urinary tract infections can make sex uncomfortable. If infections are recurring, options like boric acid suppositories may support long-term vaginal health. -
Endometriosis or PCOS
These underlying health conditions can cause pelvic pain during or after sex. If pain is persistent, it’s important to seek medical advice for proper treatment. -
Psychological or Emotional Stress
Anxiety, past trauma, or relationship tension can also manifest physically, tightening pelvic muscles and making intimacy painful. Combining physical pelvic care with emotional support is often most effective.
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When Kegels Aren’t the Answer
A common myth is that Kegel exercises fix all pelvic problems. While Kegels can strengthen muscles, they aren’t always the solution—especially if your pelvic floor is already too tight. This is where using a pelvic floor wand or dilator set can help gently relax and retrain muscles instead of over-strengthening them.
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How to Heal and Reclaim Pleasure
If you’re struggling with painful sex, here are some steps to start healing:
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Listen to Your Body: Pain is communication, not something to “push through.”
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Use Supportive Tools: Vaginal wands, dilators, and vaginal moisturizers can be game-changers in restoring comfort.
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Seek Professional Care: A pelvic floor physical therapist or gynecologist can provide personalized treatment.
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Focus on Lubrication & Moisture: Hydration and vaginal wellness products can reduce dryness and irritation.
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Address Emotional Health: Mindfulness, therapy, or open conversations with your partner can reduce stress-related pelvic tension.
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Final Word
Pain during sex is not something you have to live with. Your body is trying to tell you that something needs attention—whether physical, hormonal, or emotional. With the right tools, support, and knowledge, you can restore comfort, pleasure, and confidence in your intimate life.
👉 Explore VWELL’s collection of vaginal health essentials like boric acid suppositories, wands, and pelvic floor trainers to start your journey toward pain-free intimacy.
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