One lesser-known cause of persistent pain during intimacy is vulvodynia, a condition that impacts countless women but often goes undiagnosed. Painful sex isn’t just a physical problem; it affects your confidence, relationships, and overall quality of life.
At Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, we believe that pain during intimacy should never be dismissed or accepted as normal. If you’re struggling with discomfort, it’s time to explore possible causes, and vulvodynia may be one of them.
What is Vulvodynia?
Vulvodynia is chronic pain or discomfort in the vulva (the external part of the female genitals) that lasts at least three months and has no clear, identifiable cause. The pain can be:
- Burning or stinging
- Rawness or soreness
- Itching or irritation
- Sharp, stabbing, or aching pain
For many women, the pain is triggered by touch, such as during sex, tampon use, or even wearing tight clothing. Others experience constant discomfort without touch.
How Vulvodynia Affects Intimacy
One of the most significant impacts of vulvodynia is painful intercourse (dyspareunia). You may feel:
- Pain at penetration: As soon as something touches the entrance of the vagina
- Deep pain during thrusting: Even if initial penetration is comfortable
- Lingering burning or soreness after intimacy
This discomfort often leads to anxiety around sex, reduced libido, and strain in relationships. It’s an emotional burden as much as a physical one.
What Causes Vulvodynia?
The exact cause of vulvodynia isn’t fully understood, but possible factors include:
- Nerve irritation or injury
- Hormonal changes
- Chronic inflammation
- Muscle tension or pelvic floor dysfunction
- Genetics or sensitivity to certain irritants
- Previous infections (like yeast infections)
It’s important to remember vulvodynia is not an infection, nor is it contagious.
When to Seek Help
Don’t wait to get help if:
- Pain is persistent and affects your daily life
- You feel burning, stinging, or rawness in the vulva
- Sex is painful or has become impossible
- You’ve seen multiple doctors without answers
How Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists Can Help
Our OB/GYNs approach vulvodynia with compassion and expertise. Treatment options include:
- Comprehensive pelvic exams to check for skin conditions, infections, or nerve pain
- Pelvic floor physical therapy to relax tight muscles contributing to pain
- Medications to reduce nerve pain or inflammation
- Lifestyle guidance on avoiding triggers and irritants
Our goal is to relieve your pain and restore comfort and confidence in your intimate life.
You Deserve Comfort and Connection
Living with vulvodynia can feel isolating, but you’re not alone, and help is available. If painful sex is disrupting your life, call us today at 770.720.7733 or schedule an appointment online with one of our board-certified OB/GYNs.
