Experiencing soreness after sex can have various causes, but there are multiple solutions to ease the discomfort.
Firstly, is it common for your vagina to be sore after sex?
Simply put, no, sex isn’t intended to be painful. We’re not referring to consensual pain during sex but rather the discomfort experienced when it’s not desired.
Post-sex soreness is not usual except, potentially, during the first sexual experience, which may involve hymenal stretching or tearing. The hymen is the tissue at the vaginal opening and may gradually thin or tear over time.
Despite this, post-sex soreness can occur. In fact, about three out of four women will experience pain during sex at some point in their lives, with the severity varying from temporary to chronic. So understanding sexual knowledge is very important for sexual health, welcome to check out more sexual health related articles at ootyemo.
What Causes Vaginal Soreness After Sex?
If sex is painful, seeking advice from your gynecologist is crucial. Collaborate with your doctor to identify the underlying cause, as sex should ideally be comfortable, pleasurable, and free of pain. Never settle for less!
While this article offers insights, it’s no substitute for an honest discussion with a specialist. Nevertheless, here are some common reasons for post-coital pelvic pain or vaginal soreness:
1.Inadequate lubrication during sex.
Insufficient lubrication is a frequent cause of discomfort during or after intercourse, leading to a sore vagina. Varying factors such as age, birth control methods, and certain medications affect natural lubrication levels.
When the vagina lacks proper lubrication during intercourse, friction can result in small tears in the skin. These tears may increase the risk of infection and contribute to post-sex vaginal discomfort.
Immediate relief: Similar to moisturizing dry skin, applying suitable lubrication can have a soothing effect. Avoid using lubricants containing alcohol to prevent stinging the skin tears.
Preventive measures: Ensure adequate lubrication during sex. Using additional lubrication can supplement natural lubrication as needed. Consulting your gynecologist can help explore suitable options.
2.Insufficient arousal before sex.
Occasionally, you might not feel entirely in the mood, and that's perfectly normal. However, engaging in sex without sufficient arousal can result in inadequate lubrication, leading to post-sex vaginal soreness.
Immediate relief: Using a cold compress in the aftermath can help reduce irritation and potential swelling. Avoid direct application of ice to your vulva. Instead, wrap ice in a clean cloth and place it on the area (over underwear) for about 10 minutes. Additionally, it's advisable to refrain from sexual activity until the soreness diminishes.
Preventive measures: Prioritize foreplay. Arousal is crucial for enjoyable sex, much like an erection is for a person with a penis. Communicate with your partner about your preferences in foreplay. If you're not as aroused as desired but still wish to engage in sex, using lubricant can be beneficial.
3.Large size of your partner or sex toy.
If your partner’s penis, hand, or sex toy used is notably sizable, it may reach your cervix during penetration, resulting in discomfort akin to menstrual cramps.
Immediate relief: Consider a warm bath, using a heating pad, or taking a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) like ibuprofen for its anti-inflammatory effects. Also, allow time for the soreness to diminish. If the discomfort persists, consult your doctor.
Preventive measures: Focus on foreplay, as it expands the vagina and enhances lubrication, facilitating more comfortable penetration. Opt for positions that offer better control to the person with a vagina, such as being on top. Avoid positions that maximize depth, like doggy style, or those involving legs elevated, as these might contribute to vaginal soreness. Additionally, prioritize slow and gentle movements and communicate openly with your partner about any discomfort. If using a dildo, consider opting for a smaller size.
4.Intense friction during rough sex.
Excessive friction, although typically pleasurable, can lead to vaginal soreness if there's insufficient lubrication.
Immediate relief: If your vulva feels sore or swollen post-sex, place a cold compress outside your underwear for 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid inserting ice into your vagina, as this may cause further irritation. Allow some time, and if the soreness persists after a few days, consult your doctor.
Preventive measures: Ensure adequate lubrication by incorporating sufficient foreplay. It’s crucial to initiate sex gently, gradually transitioning into more intense activities if desired.
5.Vaginal infection.
If you notice discomfort extending beyond mild soreness, like itching, burning, abnormal discharge, bleeding during sex, or pelvic pain, it might indicate a vaginal infection.
Immediate relief: Avoid self-diagnosis or self-treatment; seek advice from your doctor promptly. Depending on the infection, prescription medication may be required.
Preventive measures: Specific preventive methods vary based on the infection. Discuss with your gynecologist for tailored advice. Using condoms or dental dams for necessary sexual activities can help prevent STIs. Additionally, urinating after sex decreases the risk of a UTI. Avoid douching as it can disrupt vaginal pH balance, increasing susceptibility to infections. If your vagina is sore, a cold washcloth on the vulva might offer some soothing relief.
6.Low estrogen levels.
Estrogen, a vital hormone for vaginal health, contributes to maintaining lubrication, elasticity, and thickness of the vaginal walls. Low estrogen levels can result in thinning, dryness, and inflammation, potentially leading to vaginal soreness. This is especially common during menopause, postpartum periods, breastfeeding, or when taking anti-estrogen medications.
Immediate relief: Consider using a long-lasting vaginal moisturizer like Replens two to three times weekly. These moisturizers help line the vaginal walls with moisture for several days, promoting healthier vaginal tissue. If discomfort persists, consult your doctor for alternative solutions.
Preventive measures: For menopausal women or those with low estrogen levels, your doctor might recommend estrogen-based creams, vaginal tablets, or a vaginal ring that releases a steady estrogen dose. If you're undergoing cancer treatment with anti-estrogen drugs or breastfeeding, discuss potential options with your doctor for safe management.
7.Scar tissue.
After childbirth or vaginal surgeries like lesion removal, scar tissue might contribute to post-sex vaginal soreness. Scar tissue forms during the healing process after an injury or surgical incision and can lead to discomfort if it doesn't heal properly.
Immediate relief: Using lubricants during sex may alleviate pain caused by minimal scar tissue. However, if this doesn't provide relief, consulting your doctor is recommended. A physical examination by your doctor or referral to a specialized pelvic physical therapist might be necessary.
Preventive measures: Preventing scar tissue formation in the vagina can be challenging. If planning childbirth or undergoing vaginal procedures, discuss potential risks with your doctor to minimize the likelihood of extensive scar tissue.