Dyspareunia: treatment through pelvic floor exercises
If chemical contraceptives or intimate hygiene products are the problem, those affected should switch to alternatives. Some women also find it easier to use a lubricant or to regularly apply cream to the vulva with nourishing substances. Changing sexual practices can also solve the problem.
Psychotherapy, relaxation, massages & co.
However, if no direct cause can be identified, a number of different measures usually help. On the one hand, general stress should be reduced. Psychotherapy, such as behavioral therapy, can help. A lot of sport, regular sleep and relaxation techniques such as yoga also help to reduce tension. Doctors have had good experiences with targeted pelvic floor training under the guidance of specialists. This teaches women to notice and control the tension in their pelvic floor muscles. Massages and acupuncture can also promote relaxation. Sexual intercourse should be avoided for a longer period of time (e.g. three months) to break the spiral of fear and pain and allow tiny injuries to heal.
In connection with pain during sex, it is also helpful to educate the woman about her sexual organs and their function. With the sensitive support of your doctor, you can then build up a positive relationship with your vagina. In most cases, treatment with antidepressants or anti-epileptic drugs as well as psychotherapists and physiotherapists leads to improvement. Pain-relieving ointments can help in the short term. Sometimes injections with botulinum toxin are also promising. In individual cases, the affected area can be surgically removed (vestibulectomy).