Pain During Sex: Why It Happens and How Therapy Can Help

You’re not alone if you’ve experienced pain during sex. Many people of all genders deal with painful sex (also called dyspareunia) at some point, but it’s often misunderstood or ignored. Whether it’s burning, aching, or sharp discomfort (during or after sex) this pain can impact not just your body, but also your emotions, relationships, and sense of self.

Pain during sex is treatable and therapy can play a key role in your healing!

Why Does Sex Hurt?

Painful sex can have physical, emotional, or combined causes, such as:

• Vaginal dryness or hormonal changes
  
  

• Pelvic floor muscle tension
  
  

• Trauma or anxiety
  
  

• Past negative sexual experiences
  
  

• Medical conditions like endometriosis or vaginismus
  
  

• Lack of communication with a partner
  
  

These factors often feed into each other and can create a cycle that keeps the pain going.

How Therapy Can Help

Sex therapy offers a supportive, judgment-free space to explore what’s happening in your body and your relationships. A therapist can help you:

• Understand through processing what might be causing the pain
  
  

• Reduce anxiety or fear around intimacy
  
  

• Learn how to communicate with your partner(s)
  
  

• Rebuild a sense of trust and comfort in your body
  
  

• Work alongside medical professionals or pelvic floor specialists if needed
  
  

You’re not broken. And you don’t have to live with the pain! With the right support, it’s possible to enjoy intimacy again and on your terms. If you're ready to take the next step, we’re here to help!