Pain during or after intercourse—known clinically as dyspareunia—is more common than many people realize. Although sex is meant to bring pleasure, discomfort can occur for various reasons. Understanding the underlying causes can help you address the issue and regain intimacy. Here are ten possibilities and what you can do about them.

Yeast And Bacterial Infections

Fungal infections such as yeast overgrowth, or bacterial vaginosis, can cause vaginal inflammation (vaginitis). Urinary tract infections may also inflame the urethra. Friction during intercourse can worsen this soreness or burning sensation. Men may also experience penile pain if a yeast or urinary infection affects them.

Treatment typically involves antifungal medications for yeast, or antibiotics for bacterial issues. Staying hydrated, urinating after sex, and avoiding scented hygiene products can help reduce recurrence.

Stis

Sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, or trichomoniasis can inflame genital tissues, often causing a burning sensation during or after intercourse. They may also trigger unusual discharge or painful urination. Herpes with active lesions is another painful culprit.

Treatment requires medical intervention—antibiotics or antiviral agents and the use of barrier protection to prevent future infections.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (Pid)

PID refers to infection of the upper genital tract (uterus, fallopian tubes) often caused by untreated STIs. Symptoms may include severe deep pelvic pain during intercourse, fever, unusual discharge, and lower abdomen discomfort.

Early treatment with antibiotics is critical to prevent complications, such as scarring and infertility.

Vaginal Dryness

Sexual dryness—due to insufficient lubrication—can cause painful chafing. Changes in hormone levels after childbirth, during lactation, or in menopause can reduce estrogen and compromise natural moisture.

Relief comes from using water-based lubricants, possibly adding vaginal moisturizers or low-dose estrogen under medical guidance.

Genital Injuries

Physical trauma—such as tears during childbirth, episiotomy, or injury to the penis—can make intercourse painful. Healing tissues are particularly sensitive and susceptible to re‑injury.

It is important to refrain from sex during recovery. Some research suggests techniques like scar massage and topical numbing agents may promote healing, but medical consultation is essential.

Skin Irritants

Certain products—like scented lubricants, spermicides, condoms containing nonoxynol-9, or latex—can irritate mucosal tissues and cause burning or pain.

Choosing non-scented, hypoallergenic, and non-latex products (like polyurethane condoms) can help avoid this issue.

Allergic Reactions

Allergies to latex or sperm proteins (a rare condition known as human seminal plasma hypersensitivity) can provoke itching, swelling, or painful intercourse.

Switching to non‑latex barrier methods or avoiding contact with triggering substances is recommended.

Endometriosis

This condition involves uterine-like tissue growing outside the uterus—on organs like ovaries or fallopian tubes—causing deep pelvic pain during or after sex. Other symptoms include painful periods, digestive upset, or infertility.

While there is no cure, symptom management through hormonal birth control or surgical removal of tissue can bring relief.

Penis Shape and Size

Some individuals with deeper or more rigid penetration may feel discomfort if the partner’s penis is unusually large or curved. Conditions such as Peyronie’s disease—where scar tissue causes abnormal curvature—can also lead to discomfort.

Use of lubrication, gentle pacing, open communication, and medical evaluation can address and ease the issue.

Tilted Uterus

A retroverted uterus (tilted backwards) can place pressure on the cervix during penetration, causing discomfort. This anatomical difference doesn’t necessarily require treatment; it often only necessitates adaptation.

Using shallower penetration and experimenting with positions can help reduce pain.

When To See A Healthcare Provider

It is important to seek professional advice when pain persists, worsens, or is accompanied by symptoms like fever, bleeding, or emotional distress. A provider can rule out infection, structural issues, or underlying conditions, and may refer you to a gynecologist, urologist, or sex therapist.

Early intervention preserves sexual wellness and mental health.

A Quick Review

Pain during or after sex is not normal and may be caused by infections, dryness, anatomical differences, or conditions like endometriosis and PID. Identifying the root cause with a healthcare provider can guide effective treatments. Don’t suffer in silence—professional help can restore comfort and intimacy.