Dyspareunia | Elevation of the Perineum with thebuttpillow

What is Dyspareunia?

Dyspareunia (difficult mating) is defined as genital pain that occurs before, during, or after intercourse.

This is not a well understood condition, and it can be lifelong or acquired.

If dyspareunia has not always been present, it usually occurs ten years after the start of sexual activity.

How Common is Dyspareunia?

“Dyspareunia is one of the most common sexual dysfunctions seen by gynecologists and is estimated to affect about two-thirds of women during their lifetime, (Marinoff, S.C. and Turner, M.L.C., 1993).”

The medical literature does not quantify the number of men faced with this problem.

Dyspareunia Sufferers should Consider the Mind and Body

Dyspareunia can have psychological as well as physical factors.  It is important to consider both the mind and the body in any treatment regimen.

According to Novak’s Textbook of Gynecology, 12th Edition, by Jonathan S. Berek, 1996:

 “Psychological factors contributing to dyspareunia include:

• “Development factors, e.g., an upbringing that invested sex with guilt and shame;

• “Traumatic factors, e.g., childhood sexual abuse or other sexual assault;

• “Relationship factors, e.g., anger and resentment toward a sexual partner.”

“The repeated experience of pain during intercourse can cause marked distress, anxiety, and interpersonal difficulties leading to anticipation of a negative sexual experience and eventually to sexual avoidance (American Psychiatric Association, 4th ed. 1994).”

Vaginal Infection \ Prostate Infection

“Vaginal infection is the most common cause of successfully treated dyspareunia,  (Glatt, A.E. 1990).”

In men, infection of the prostate is the most common cause of successfully treated dyspareunia.

Other common physical causes are genital glands and adhesive bands that swell only in relation to intercourse.

Dyspareunia|Hypersensitivity or Irritation of the Clitoris or Prostate

Stimulation of the genitalia by sitting, and conditions such as hypersensitivity or irritation of the clitoris or prostate can be causes of frustrating pain.

Other anatomical causes of dyspareunia in women can be a rigid hymenal ring or scar tissue in an episiotomy scar.

Irritation from Over-the-Counter Products

Dyspareunia can also be caused by irritation from over-the-counter feminine spray products, douches, and contraceptive devices (i.e., condoms, sponges, diaphragms).

Dyspareunia can be Minimized with Water Soluble Lubricants

A common cause of dyspareunia is inadequate sexual arousal.

This condition may be resolved with adequate lubrication, increased foreplay, and counseling, if necessary.

When using lubricant, always use water-soluble products, such as KY Jelly or Astroglide.

Dyspareunia can be Associated with Menopause and Lactation

Finally, pain associated with intercourse can be the result of vaginal atrophy from estrogen deficiency in menopausal or lactating women.

This condition can be diagnosed by your physician and can be treated with vaginal or systemic estrogen replacement therapy.

 

from lactation « WordPress.com Tag Feed https://ift.tt/2I1O7Fs
article sponsered by Northern Michigan certified lactation consulting and Mother Hubbards Country Cupboard