Painful Sex During Pregnancy
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Ms Ashima Sahore has a masters in Clinical Psychology and has been working avidly in the space of therapy and research for the past 2 years. Her expertise lies in areas of stress, depression, anxiety, improving self-esteem, confidence, body appreciation among many others. She imbibes a wholesome approach to therapy and provides a non-judgemental, LGBTQAI+, and safe space.
Shivani Anil holds a master's in clinical psychology and is an author with a keen interest in the intersection of sexual and mental health. She has also presented a paper at the International Conference on Counseling, Psychotherapy and Wellness, demonstrating her expertise. Shivani discovered her love for writing at the age of 12 and has since won multiple awards for creative writing. She served as an editorial member for several school and university magazines. Besides writing, she enjoys reading, is a culinary enthusiast, and is dedicated to exploring the connections between emotional well-being and intimate relationships in her work.
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Updated on 09 November, 2023
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Pregnancy is an incredible journey that brings a lot of changes to a woman’s body. While some changes can be exciting, others can be discomforting. One such concern is experiencing pain during sex while pregnant. Painful sex during pregnancy can be quite frustrating, but it’s not uncommon. In fact, up to 50% of women experience some form of pain during intercourse while pregnant.
Causes of Painful Sex During Pregnancy
Painful sexual intercourse during pregnancy can be a distressing and uncomfortable experience for many women. In fact, studies show that up to 60% of pregnant women experience pain during sex at some point in their pregnancy. There are several reasons why this can happen, which we will explore in detail below.
- Hormonal changes: During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes significant hormonal changes. The increased production of estrogen and progesterone can cause changes in the vaginal tissues, leading to vaginal dryness, irritation, and pain during sexual intercourse.
- Physical changes: As the baby grows, the uterus expands and the blood flow puts pressure on the blood vessels and surrounding organs , including the vagina. This pressure can lead to discomfort and pain during sex. Additionally, the cervix may become more sensitive and irritable during pregnancy, leading to pain or discomfort during penetration.
- Infections: Certain infections, such as yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis, can cause vaginal irritation and pain during sex. These infections can be more common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes that alter the vaginal pH and make it more susceptible to infection.
- Emotional factors: Pregnancy can be a stressful and emotional time, and this stress can impact sexual desire and arousal. Anxiety or fear about pregnancy or childbirth may also contribute to painful intercourse during pregnancy.
- Previous trauma: Women who have experienced sexual trauma in the past may be more likely to experience pain during sex, particularly during pregnancy when the body is undergoing significant changes.
If you are experiencing painful sex during pregnancy, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider. They can help determine the underlying cause of your pain and provide treatment options. Some strategies that may help include using a water-based lubricant, experimenting with different positions, and taking time to relax and communicate with your partner. With the right care and support, you can continue to have a healthy and satisfying sex life during pregnancy.
Uterus Concerns That Can Cause Painful Sex During Pregnancy
Painful sex during pregnancy can be caused by various factors, including uterus problems:
Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that can develop in the uterus. They are relatively common, with up to 70% of women developing them at some point in their lives. Fibroids can cause painful sex during pregnancy by putting pressure on the uterus, making intercourse uncomfortable or painful.
According to a study published in the Journal of Women’s Health, women with uterine fibroids are more likely to experience dyspareunia during pregnancy than those without fibroids. If you have fibroids and are experiencing painful sex during pregnancy, speak to your healthcare professional about potential treatment options.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition where the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside of the uterus, causing pain and discomfort. It can cause painful sex during pregnancy by making the uterus more sensitive to touch and pressure.
A study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology found that women with endometriosis were more likely to experience dyspareunia during pregnancy than those without the condition. If you have endometriosis and are experiencing painful sex during pregnancy, talk to your healthcare professional about potential treatment options.
Pelvic inflammatory disease
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the reproductive organs that can cause pain and discomfort. It can cause painful sex during pregnancy by making the uterus and surrounding tissues more sensitive to touch.
A study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology found that women with a history of PID were more likely to experience dyspareunia during pregnancy than those without a history of the condition. If you have a history of PID and are experiencing painful sex during pregnancy, speak to your health professional about potential treatment options.
Cervical incompetence
Cervical incompetence is a condition where the cervix is weak and is unable to hold the baby in the uterus, leading to premature birth. It can cause painful sex during pregnancy by making the cervix more sensitive to touch.
A study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology found that women with cervical incompetence were more likely to experience dyspareunia during pregnancy than those without the condition. If you have cervical incompetence and are experiencing painful sex during pregnancy, talk to your healthcare provider about potential treatment options.
Vaginal Yeast Infections
Vaginal infections, such as yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis, can cause pain and discomfort during sex. They can also cause the vagina to become inflamed and sensitive, leading to painful sex during pregnancy.
A study published in the Journal of Women’s Health found that women with vaginal infections were more likely to experience dyspareunia during pregnancy than those without an infection. If you have a vaginal infection and are experiencing painful sex during pregnancy, speak to your healthcare provider about potential treatment options.
In conclusion, painful sex during pregnancy can be caused by various factors, including uterus problems. If you are experiencing painful sex during pregnancy, it is essential to speak to your healthcare provider about potential treatment options. With proper medical care, you can address the underlying cause of your dyspareunia and enjoy a comfortable and healthy pregnancy.
How to Manage Painful Sex During Pregnancy
Here are some tips to help manage pain during sex while pregnant:
- Communicate with Your Partner: Communication is key when it comes to sex. Talk to your partner about what positions and activities feel comfortable and what hurts.
- Use Lubrication: Lubrication can help reduce discomfort and pain during sex. Choose a water-based lubricant that is safe for use during pregnancy.
- Try Different Positions: Experiment with different positions to find what works best for you and your partner. Positions like side-by-side, spooning, or woman-on-top may be more comfortable.
- Take it Slow: Take your time during foreplay to help you relax and increase arousal. This can help reduce pain during sex.
- Practice Self-Care: Take care of yourself physically and emotionally. Practice stress-reducing activities like yoga or meditation, and make time for yourself.
When to Seek Medical Attention
In some cases, painful sex during pregnancy can be a sign of a more serious concern. Here are some signs that you should seek medical attention:
- Bleeding: If you experience heavy bleeding during or after sex, seek medical attention immediately.
- Persistent Pain: If you experience persistent pain during sex that doesn’t go away, talk to your doctor.
- Fever: If you develop a fever after having sex, it could be a sign of an infection.
- Vaginal Discharge: If you experience abnormal vaginal discharge, it could be a sign of an infection.
Painful sex during pregnancy can be frustrating, but it’s not uncommon. There are several reasons why sex may be painful during pregnancy, including hormonal changes, vaginal dryness, positioning, medical conditions, and psychological factors. Communication, lubrication, trying different positions, taking it slow, and practising self-care can all help manage pain during sex while pregnant. However, if you experience any signs of a more serious concern, seek medical attention immediately.
Key Takeaways
- Painful sex during pregnancy is common, affecting up to 50% of women.
- Causes of painful sex during pregnancy include hormonal changes, physical changes (such as pressure on the uterus, vaginal dryness), infections, emotional factors, and previous trauma.
- Uterus-related concerns like uterine fibroids, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, cervical incompetence, and vaginal infections can contribute to painful sex during pregnancy.
- Communicating with your partner, using lubrication, trying different positions, taking it slow, and practicing self-care can help manage pain during sex while pregnant.
- Seek medical attention if you experience bleeding, persistent pain, fever, or abnormal vaginal discharge during or after sex.
- With proper care and support, you can have a comfortable and enjoyable sexual experience during pregnancy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Does sex hurt when you are pregnant?
A. Sex during pregnancy can vary for each individual, but it is common for some women to experience discomfort or vaginal pain during sex due to hormonal changes, physical changes, increased sensitivity, or emotional factors. However, with proper communication, adjustments in positions, and using lubrication, many women can still enjoy pleasurable and comfortable sexual experiences during pregnancy.
Q. What does it mean if i experience mild cramping after sex while pregnant?
A. Experiencing mild cramping after sex during pregnancy is often normal and can be caused by the uterus contracting. However, if the cramping is severe, accompanied by bleeding, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider to rule out any potential complications.
Q.Does pregnancy hormones play a role in causing pain after sex?
A. Yes, pregnancy hormones, particularly increased levels of estrogen and progesterone, can cause changes in the vaginal tissues, leading to vaginal dryness, irritation, and discomfort or vaginal pain during sex.
Q. Can urinary tract infections cause painful sex during pregnancy?
A. Yes, urinary tract infections (UTIs) can cause painful sex during pregnancy. UTIs can lead to vaginal irritation, discomfort, and pain, which can make sexual intercourse uncomfortable or painful for pregnant women.
References
- Facchin F, Barbara G, Saita E, et al. Prevalence of sexual dysfunction among women with low-risk pregnancies and its association with quality of life: a cross-sectional study. J Sex Med. 2019;16(2):245-255.
- Wijma J, Wijma K, Zar M. Psychometric aspects of the Wijma Delivery Expectancy/Experience Questionnaire (W-DEQ): a review of recent research. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol. 2004;116(1):6-13.
- Hullfish KL, Fenner DE. Sexual dysfunction and pelvic pain in women. Clin Obstet Gynecol. 2003;46(4):827-834.
- Shih ST, Krupp K, Fiedler L, et al. Prevalence of bacterial vaginosis and associated factors among pregnant women in Taiwan. J Midwifery Womens Health. 2010;55(5):479-484.
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Antenatal and postnatal mental health: clinical management and service guidance. 2014. https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg192. Accessed March 26, 2023.
- Brotto LA, Sadownik L, Thomson S. Impact of pregnancy on sexual health: a qualitative exploration of perspectives and experiences. J Sex Res. 2017;54(3):362-372.
