DYSPAREUNIA

🔷 DYSPAREUNIA (PAIN DURING SEXUAL INTERCOURSE)

Causes & treatment

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Dyspareunia refers to pain during sexual intercourse and can significantly affect physical and emotional well-being, as well as the relationship.

Many women (and less commonly men) experience pain but find it difficult to talk about due to shame or fear.

👉 It is important to know that:
Pain is not “normal” — but it is treatable.

👉 Book a confidential appointment today.

🔷 What is Dyspareunia?

Dyspareunia refers to:

• pain during penetration

• pain during or after intercourse

• sensations of burning, pressure, or tension

It may be:

• superficial (at the vaginal entrance)

• deep (during penetration)

🔷 Why does it happen?

Pain during sexual intercourse is usually the result of multiple interacting factors.

🔹 Physical factors

• Vaginal dryness

• Hormonal changes

• Inflammation or infections

• Gynecological conditions

👉 In these cases, collaboration with a gynecologist is important

🔹 Psychological factors

• Anxiety

• Fear of pain

• Negative past experiences

• Trauma

• Shame related to sex

🔹 Muscle tension

In many cases, there is:

👉 involuntary contraction of the pelvic floor muscles

which causes or intensifies pain

🔹 Relationship factors

• Lack of safety

• Difficulty trusting

• Emotional distance

🔷 The vicious cycle of pain

• Pain during intercourse

• Fear of the next time

• Body tension

• Increased pain

• Avoidance

👉 The cycle becomes reinforced

🔷 Difference between dyspareunia and vaginismus

• Dyspareunia: pain during penetration

• Vaginismus: involuntary contraction preventing penetration

👉 They often co-occur and require a specialized approach

🔷 How Sex Therapy Helps

Therapy focuses on:

✔ reducing fear and anxiety
✔ relaxing the body
✔ understanding the causes
✔ restoring a sense of safety

🔹 It may include:

• Psychoeducation

• Relaxation exercises

• Sensate focus (without pressure for penetration)

• Gradual re-approach

• Partner involvement

🔷 Practical guidance

✔ Focus on safety rather than performance
✔ Gradual progression
✔ Respect for the body’s limits
✔ Communication with your partner

🔷 Common myths about pain during sex

❌ “It’s normal to feel pain”
✔ No — pain is a signal that something needs attention

❌ “It’s all in my head”
✔ It is real — involving both physical and psychological factors

❌ “There is no solution”
✔ Treatment is available

🔷 When to seek help

• When there is pain during intercourse

• When there is fear around sex

• When intimacy is avoided

👉 The earlier you seek help, the more effective the intervention

🔷 What to expect

• A safe and confidential environment

• Respect and understanding

• A gradual and gentle approach

• Practical guidance

🔷 About me

I am a Clinical Psychologist (MSc) specialized in sex therapy and couples therapy.

• I work with women and couples

• I apply evidence-based approaches

• Member of the International Society for Sexual Medicine

🔷 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is it common?
Yes, many women experience it at some point in their lives.

Can it be treated?
Yes, with proper guidance there is significant improvement.

Should I also see a doctor?
In many cases, yes — for a comprehensive evaluation.

🔷 Why does sex hurt?

Pain is often linked to body tension, anxiety, or physical factors. When the body does not feel safe, a protective response is activated, which can lead to pain.

🔷 Book an appointment

📍 Online or In-Person Therapy | Sessions in English / Greek 
📞 99536269

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👉 Book your first session today — with complete confidentiality