Dyspareunia is defined as a feeling of pain while or after having sexual intercourse. It may be unrelated to any of the pathological etiologies and occurring just because of low stretchability or lubrication which is just a physiologic phenomenon especially during the first few times. It would not require any medical or surgical treatment because it is a physiological process which means it is normal to the body.
Best Exercises/Activities For Dyspareunia
There are many exercises and activities available to counter the pain experienced. One such way is Kegel exercises. These are very effective in strengthening the floor of the pelvis containing various muscles which support the internal organs located in the pelvis. It is very important to identify the right group of pelvic muscles to identify the source of pain. It includes holding the urine mid-stream while micturating because it requires a lot of effort from pelvic floor muscles to do that and it helps to improve the tone of these muscles.
Another exercise is imagining you are sitting on a hard surface with a marble on it in between the legs. Now the person should practice in such a way that she is trying to lift that marble within the pelvis without any help. Be sure to not use the abdominal muscles and do not hold breath because it comprises of faulty technique. It can be done thrice a day for about 15 days to entirely train them because these exercises are very effective in patients suffering from dyspareunia. Be careful to not make this exercise a routine while having micturition every time because it will lead to incomplete voiding of urine and will increase the chances of urinary tract infection.(1)
Apart from this, many of the activities can be done which are partner directed. It means that both the partners have to take part in them because it will help in maintaining intimacy while not having sexual intercourse at the same time. It can include mutual masturbation which tries to remove the sexual tension developed within relationships due to dyspareunia. Longer foreplay will not only help in developing adequate intimacy before the sexual act but also will increase the lubrication. Other satisfying measures could include sensual massage, kissing, bathing together, mutual caressing, oral sex, etc. provided both the partners are comfortable with it.
Change in positions can also be tried if there is more pain in a particular position like missionary because it has maximum penetration. A female partner can try a position like on the top in which she can control the length of penetration depending upon her comfort. While having sex, it is more convenient for the female if she holds the penis in her hand and controls the depth of penetration by itself according to her comfort level instead of penetrating her partner do it. Because it can also help the female to locate the site of pain and to prevent it from getting active.(2)
Another form of alternative treatment is desensitization therapy also known as sex therapy. In this, the female partner is taught how to make yourself desensitized to the pain happening during the act and how to focus on the pleasure.(3)
Conclusion
Dyspareunia is not such a condition that it should be feared because it is not dangerous all the time. There can be few basic causes which can be eliminated by just a few preventive measures and there may be no need for any kind of treatment. Consult with a good sexologist/gynecologist is very helpful because they can understand the problem clearly and provide the patient with the best advice. But it is equally important to communicate with the partner about the condition and he should be taken into trust because failure to do so can create a misunderstanding which can be harmful for the relationship.
Also Read:
- How Common Is Dyspareunia Or Is It A Rare Disease?
- How Long Will It Take To Recover From Dyspareunia & How Long Does The Symptoms Last?
- Is Dyspareunia A Progressive Disease & Alternative Treatments For It?
- What Is The Best Treatment For Dyspareunia & Is There A Surgery For It?
- What Is The Prognosis For Dyspareunia & Lifestyle Changes For It?
- How Dangerous Is Dyspareunia & Is It Contagious?
- How To Diagnose Dyspareunia & What Is The Best Medicine For It?