Let’s be honest—sex isn’t always perfect, and some discomfort is common for many women at certain times. But how do you know if it’s normal or a sign that something’s wrong? Here’s what you need to know.

When Is Pain During Sex Normal?

Certain Positions

• Why it happens: Deep penetration in some positions can press against sensitive areas like the cervix or bladder.
• What to do: Avoid positions that allow deep penetration and try positions where you control the depth.
  

Timing in Your Cycle

• Why it happens: Hormonal changes during ovulation or menstruation can make the uterus and ovaries more sensitive.
• What to do: Use lubrication to reduce friction and track your cycle to avoid more tender times.
  

Postpartum Recovery

• Why it happens: Hormonal shifts and healing after childbirth can cause dryness or mild discomfort.
• What to do: Take your time, use lubricants, and communicate with your partner about what feels right for you.

When Is Pain During Sex Not Normal?

If the pain is sharp, severe, or keeps happening in similar situations, it’s not normal. Here are some possible causes:

Vaginal Dryness

• Cause: Hormonal changes from menopause, breastfeeding, or certain medications.
• Symptoms: Burning, stinging, or a feeling of rawness during intercourse.
• What to do: Use high-quality lubricants or speak to your doctor about vaginal moisturisers or hormone treatments.
  

Vaginitis (Vaginal Infections)

• Cause: Infections like thrush (yeast infection) or bacterial vaginosis (BV), or irritants like soaps or douches.
• Symptoms: Burning, itching, and pain during sex, often accompanied by unusual discharge, or a strong odour.
• What to do: Treat the infection or avoid the irritant with guidance from a healthcare provider.
  

Endometriosis

• Cause: A condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing painful adhesions (bands of scar tissue that stick organs together).
• Symptoms: Sharp, deep pain during penetration, often accompanied by heavy periods or chronic pelvic pain.
• What to do: Seek medical advice. Treatments include hormone therapies, pain relief, or surgery.
  

Ovarian Cysts

• Cause: Fluid-filled sacs on or inside the ovaries.
• Symptoms: Sudden, sharp pain on one side of the pelvis during sex.
• What to do: If the pain is severe or frequent, consult a doctor. Some cysts may need to be removed.
  

Vaginismus

• Cause: Involuntary tightening of the vaginal muscles, often linked to anxiety, trauma, or fear of penetration.
• Symptoms: Sharp or burning pain at the vaginal entrance, difficulty with penetration, or complete inability to engage in intercourse despite wanting to.
• What to do: A pelvic floor therapist or women’s healthcare professional can help with treatments like relaxation exercises, physical therapy, or counselling.

When Should You See a Doctor?

See a doctor if:

• Pain is sharp, stabbing, or gets worse over time.
• You experience other symptoms like irregular periods, unusual discharge, or pelvic pain outside of intercourse.
• Pain is affecting your intimacy, confidence, or quality of life.

Takeaway

Some discomfort during sex can be normal, like during certain positions or times in your cycle. But persistent, sharp, or recurring pain isn’t something you have to live with. Consult a doctor from the privacy of your home to get answers and find solutions. With the right help, you can enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling sex life.