We love to get it on in the bedroom, but it doesn’t always go as planned. Sometimes sex feels good, other times it’s just awful.
When we say ‘awful,’ we mean that it hurts. When sex hurts, people are quick to panic. They jump to the worst case scenario, but there are so many reasons why sex may hurt.
We at NYGal want everyone to have safe and satisfying sex every time. So, we’re here to explain some of the top reasons why sex can hurt or feel uncomfortable.
You Have An STI
We know that sexually transmitted infections are scary, but the good news is that most of them are treatable. However, if left untreated, these infections can turn into more serious problems.
Sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease which results in pain during sex. These STIs are often ‘silent.’ This means that they go undetected because early symptoms do not show.
If you’ve had unprotected sex and feel pain or discomfort later, visit your doctor for a health assessment. It’s better to know sooner than later if you’ve caught an infection so it can be treated immediately. Don’t feel ashamed or embarrassed. It happens to the best of us.
You Have Vulvodynia
Vulvodynia is a condition in which women experience chronic, unexplained pain around the vagina. There are many causes of vulvodynia, including an injury to important nerves, but there’s still so much that doctors don’t understand about the condition. There’s not a cure for vulvodynia, but it can be managed.
This is a rare condition and usually affects mostly older women. So, it’s a huge probability that you don’t have it, but you never know. If you do get diagnosed with vulvodynia, don’t worry. It can go away as quickly as it appeared without any necessary body changes.
You’re Experiencing Vaginal Dryness
When your lady bits are too dry, it makes it difficult to enjoy sex. You need moisture to reduce friction and if there isn’t any, you’ll experience some discomfort. Some women have a hard time producing natural lubrication. It’s a good thing that there are so many lubricants out there. You’re bound to find one that fits your needs.
Lubricants range from water-based to oil-based. There are organic options and some that with heating and cooling properties. Even if you don’t suffer from vaginal dryness, using a lubricant during sex can be really fun. Experiment with different types until you find one that you love. It’s alright to mess up your sheets if it leads to an orgasm.
Too Much Rough Sex
We’re all for rough sex. It’s a great way to spice things up in the bedroom; however, when it becomes painful, then it’s time to slow it down. Talk to your partner about your limits. The vagina is an amazing part of the body and is capable of doing the impossible, but it does need a break sometimes.
Switch up your sex routine with a few lovemaking sessions. It’s good to take it slow with your boo. Your vagina will thank you.
You’re Just Not Into It
If sex is painful, it may just mean that you don’t want it. Your mind is telling your body that you’re not interested in sex, so it begins to hurt. If you’re not into it, don’t force it. Explain to your partner that you just don’t want to do it, and opt for other intimate options. Try cuddling or taking a bubble bath together. Get to know each other more outside of the bed. Your boo will understand. If he doesn’t, then you don’t need to be with him anyway.
You might be surprised that when you do other intimate activities, you’ll feel more refreshed. It might even turn you on and get you in the mood. Just remember that you don’t owe anyone sex. So, when you’re not feeling it, don’t feel obligated to continue. Your needs are just as important as your partner’s.