Dyspareunia is a condition that causes pain during intercourse, including the period following intercourse. Women who suffer from dyspareunia may also experience pain when tampons are used. Although not a lot is heard about dyspareunia, millions of women experience it, often without realizing it can be successfully treated with a range of simple treatment options.

What are the primary causes of dyspareunia?

Dyspareunia can be caused by several underlying medical conditions or issues, including:

• inflammation or irritation
• infection
• injury
• hormonal fluctuations
• anatomical defects, like a shallow vagina
• pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• vaginal muscle spasms (a condition called vaginismus)
• skin issues that occur in the skin surrounding the vaginal opening
• uterine prolapse, a condition that occurs when weak pelvic floor muscles allow the uterus to protrude into the vagina
• medical treatments like chemotherapy or some types of surgery
• inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• chronic or severe stress
• psychological issues
• very large cysts

Understanding the cause of symptoms is the key to successful treatment. As a leading gynecology practice in the Los Angeles and Santa Monica region, we evaluate each patient carefully to ensure we recommend the most appropriate treatment.

What kinds of treatment are available for dyspareunia?

That depends on what’s causing the painful symptoms. Possible treatment options include:

• hormone replacement therapy to boost or replenish depleted levels of estrogen that can cause vaginal dryness
• estrogen creams or lotions
• lubricants to decrease friction and irritation
• laser treatment to address an array of underlying issues and restore vaginal function

At our practice, your treatment will depend on a careful review of your symptoms and a thorough examination, including a pelvic exam. In some cases, ultrasound evaluation may also be prescribed.