Dyspareunia is a term for painful lovemaking or the pain during sex. Many women experience pain at some point which can occur just before, during or after the sexual lovemaking.

The symptoms of this condition may be associated with pain during penetration, new pain, pain during inserting a tampon, burning pain, thrusting pain or aching pain. Superficial pain or pain that occurs during penetration is most common in women with dyspareunia.

The causes for painful lovemaking or pain during sex can be as follows:

1. Vaginal Dryness: Dryness of the vagina may often lead to painful sexual lovemaking. Normally there is lubrication in the vagina which makes penetration of the penis easier. Lack of lubrication leads to dryness which may be caused by early penetration before enough stimulation, nervousness, tension, anxiety about the sexual performance, usage of condom without a vaginal lubricant or due to hormonal imbalance.

2. Vaginal Irritation: Vaginal irritation may be caused by certain products that contain irritants like vaginal sprays, foams, jellies or creams, scented tampons, condoms, latex gloves, soaps or laundry detergents. Excessive vaginal douching may also cause irritation in the vagina leading to pain during sex.

3. Vaginal Tightness: Tightness in vagina may result in difficult penetration and this happens when the woman is not relaxed and tensed. Vaginismus is the condition of involuntary muscle spasms causing vaginal tightness and therefore painful lovemaking.

4. Pelvic Pain: Tears in the ligaments that support the uterus, cervical infections, tubal infections, cysts, fibroids or endometriosis can cause pain in the pelvic region. This may result in dyspareunia or painful lovemaking

5. Clitoris Pain: Clitoris pain may be caused due to result of rubbing or touching. This can be due to collection of vaginal secretion under the clitoral hood if not washed properly.

6. Vulvodynia: This is a condition of stinging or burning of the vulva and vagina.

7. Injury: Injury from a surgery or an accident can cause pain during sex.

8. Skin Disorder: Skin problems like eczema in the genital region can also be a problem.

Emotional factors like anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress, sexual abuse, trauma and fear of intimacy may lead to dypareunia.

The doctor may perform a pelvic examination to check for infection or irritation and inquire about your medical history. Pelvic ultrasound or laparoscopy may be advised under certain conditions. Medications and therapies are available for the treatment of painful lovemaking as follows:

1. Estrogen Therapy: Dyspareunia that is caused by lack of lubrication due to low estrogen levels can be treated with estrogen therapy using prescription cream, vaginal ring and tablets.

2. Treating Medical Conditions: An underlying medical condition or infection may be the cause of pain during sex and treatment of the condition is required.

3. Desensitization Therapy: Vaginal relaxation exercises and pelvic exercises like kegels may be used in this treatment method. This will strengthen your pelvic muscles and ease the painful lovemaking condition.

4. Counseling: It is important to bond with your partner well and communicate freely and openly to talk about your sexual problems. Counseling or sex therapy may help to overcome the emotional factors involved.

Avoid using perfumed products near your genital area and maintain clean hygiene to avoid the condition of dyspareunia.