Our Wellbeing Matters
Dyspareunia
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Provoked Vestibulodynia
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Vaginismus
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Definition. Is pain when women try to begin sexual intercourse or pain during intercourse. Is treated in relation to the pain sensation either Superficial pain or deep pain.
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Definition. Is increased sensitivity to pain in the area around the opening of the vagina, making even gentle touch or stimulation painful. It is considered to be the most common cause of Dyspareunia.
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Definition. Involuntary contraction of the muscles around the opening of the vagina in women with no abnormalities identified during examination.
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Causes
Superficial Pain
Vaginal area does not secrete enough fluids resulting in vagina feeling dry and inadequate lubrication for intercourse.
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Causes.
Medical professionals are not sure why it happens; however, it is related to the nerve pathways that conduct pain signals from the vulva and the parts of the brain that process those signals becoming physically changed and extremely sensitive. The muscles in the pelvis may also become tightened, increasing pain sensation.
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Causes
Can occur when a woman has sexual intercourse for the first time or later in life when attempting intercourse whilst emotionally stressed.
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Other Possible Causes
Increased sensitivity of the genital area to pain (Provoked Vestibulodynia) as the most common cause.
Inflammation of the genital area, (including herpes) vagina, or Bartholin’s glands.
Inflammation or infection of the urinary tract
Injuries in the genital area
Allergic reaction to contraceptive foams, jellies or latex condoms
Involuntary contraction of the vaginal muscles (vaginismus)
Rarely a congenital abnormality
Surgery that narrows the vagina for example to repair post tear during childbirth
A hymen that interferes with the entry of the penis.
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Symptoms.
Extreme pain and sensitivity to touch
Burning sensation after intercourse in the genital area
Burning sensation after urination
Chronic pain in the Jaw or pain due to IBS
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Symptoms
Pain on attempting intercourse
Fear of intercourse as a result of pain experienced, thus increasing emotional stress
Fear results in muscles becoming tighter still, thus making intercourse more painful
Women cannot tolerate tampon insertion due to pain
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Deep Pain
Infection of the cervix, which uterus or fallopian tubes such as PID which may cause pus or abscesses to form.
Endometriosis
Growths in the pelvis (tumours or ovarian cysts)
Bands of scar tissue (adhesions) between organs in the pelvis which can form after an infection, surgery, or radiation therapy for cancer.
Note. Radiation therapy can cause both superficial or deep pain due to scar tissues causing the vagina to be less stretchable
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Symptoms
Pain in vaginal area during intercourse during foreplay or insertion of the penis.
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