Dyspareunia

Dyspareunia (/dɪspərˈuniə/ dis-pər-OO-nee-ə) is painful sexual intercourse. Although the word dyspareunia includes both female and male patients, discussions that use the term without specifying the patient's sex usually concern the female type, which is the more common.

In females, the pain may primarily affect the external surface of the genitalia (the vulva or vagina) or may be deeper in the pelvis from pressure against the cervix. Dyspareunia is a pelvic floor dysfunction that is often underdiagnosed. Understanding the duration, location, and nature of the pain is important in diagnosing the causes.

In 2020, dyspareunia was estimated to affect 35% of women worldwide at some point in their lives. Numerous physical, psychological, and social or relationship factors can contribute to pain during sexual encounters. Often, multiple underlying causes contribute to the pain. The pain can be acquired or congenital. Symptoms of dyspareunia may also occur after menopause.

Diagnosis is typically by physical examination and medical history. In each case, underlying causes determine treatment. Many patients achieve relief when physical causes are identified and treated.