Pain During Sex: Common Causes and When to Visit an OB-GYN
Painful intercourse is common — and usually treatable
Quick answer: Pain during sex is common and treatable. Pain at entry is often linked to dryness, infection or muscle tension, while deep pain can be caused by endometriosis, ovarian cysts or pelvic infection. An OB-GYN can find the cause with a gentle exam and ultrasound and suggest effective treatment.
Pain during or after sex — known medically as dyspareunia — is more common than many women realize. It can affect relationships and confidence, but it's often very treatable once the cause is found. Here's what may be behind it and when to see an OB-GYN.
Types of Pain
- Entry pain: felt at the vaginal opening during penetration.
- Deep pain: felt deeper in the pelvis, often with certain positions.
- Burning or aching after sex.
Common Causes of Entry Pain
- Vaginal dryness: due to hormonal changes, breastfeeding, menopause, some medications or insufficient arousal.
- Infections: yeast, BV or STIs can cause irritation and pain.
- Skin conditions: such as dermatitis or lichen sclerosus.
- Vaginismus: involuntary tightening of the pelvic floor muscles.
- Scarring: after childbirth or surgery.
Common Causes of Deep Pain
- Endometriosis
- Ovarian cysts
- Uterine fibroids or adenomyosis
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Pelvic floor muscle tension
When to Visit an OB-GYN
- Pain happens regularly or is getting worse
- Pain comes with bleeding, unusual discharge or fever
- You also have painful periods or pelvic pain
- Pain is affecting your relationship or wellbeing
What to Expect
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and history in a private, non-judgmental setting. A gentle exam, swabs for infection and a pelvic ultrasound may be recommended. You can ask to stop the exam at any time.
Treatment Options
- Treating infections
- Lubricants, vaginal moisturizers or local estrogen for dryness
- Pelvic floor physiotherapy
- Treatment for endometriosis, cysts or fibroids
- Counseling or sexual health support when helpful
You Don't Have to Live With It
Pain during sex is a medical symptom, not something to endure. Talking openly with an English-speaking doctor is the first step toward relief.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is pain during sex normal?
Occasional mild discomfort can happen, but recurring pain is not something you should ignore.
Can menopause cause painful sex?
Yes. Lower estrogen can cause dryness and thinning tissue; lubricants or local estrogen can help.
Will the exam be painful?
The doctor can go slowly, use a small speculum and stop whenever you ask.
Related Guides
- Endometriosis in Korea: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
- Ovarian Cysts: Symptoms, Ultrasound & Treatment in Korea
- Pelvic Pain in Women: Common Causes & When to Seek Care
- Menopause Treatment in Korea: A Guide for Foreign Women
- Complete Guide to Women's Healthcare in Korea for Foreigners
Book an English-Speaking OB-GYN Visit in Gangnam
Sinsoe Women's Clinic is a female-led OB-GYN clinic at 537 Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, a short walk from Eonju Station (Line 9, Exit 7) and Yeoksam Station (Line 2, Exit 6). All physicians are female, board-certified OB-GYNs, and consultations are available in English. Message us on WhatsApp (+82-10-9517-5719) to book.
Hours: Mon & Fri 10:00–20:00 · Tue–Thu 10:00–19:00 · Sat 10:00–16:00 · Closed Sundays
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Prices and procedures can change — please confirm details directly with the clinic.
