Painful intercourse — dyspareunia — affects approximately 1 in 5 women at some point in their lives. It is not something you should accept as inevitable, and it is not caused by any personal failing. At Mascot Healthcare, Akoka, we assess this privately, thoroughly, and without judgement.
Pain during sex can be superficial (at the entrance), deep (inside the pelvis), or both. Each type has different causes.
Reduced vaginal lubrication — from hormonal contraceptives, breastfeeding, perimenopause, or insufficient arousal — causes friction and pain at the vaginal entrance. Easily treated with lubricants or hormonal therapy.
Involuntary spasm of the vaginal muscles that makes penetration painful or impossible. Often related to anxiety, trauma, or conditioned fear. Very treatable with directed therapy and pelvic floor work.
Chronic vulval pain without obvious cause — burning, stinging, or rawness at the vaginal entrance. May be provoked only by touch or persistent. Requires specialist assessment.
Deep pelvic pain during sex — particularly with deep penetration — is one of the most characteristic symptoms of endometriosis. Often associated with painful periods and pelvic pain between periods.
Infection of the uterus, tubes, and ovaries causes deep pelvic tenderness and pain during sex. Often develops from untreated chlamydia or gonorrhoea.
Structural masses in the pelvis can cause pain during intercourse — particularly with certain positions or at certain points in the cycle.
Painful sex is one of the most undertreated gynaecological complaints in Nigeria. Many women endure it for years — sometimes their entire adult life — without seeking help, because of embarrassment, a belief that it is normal, or a previous experience of being dismissed by a healthcare provider.
The consequences extend beyond the physical discomfort: relationship strain, avoidance of intimacy, reduced self-esteem, and anxiety are all common secondary effects. In some cases, the underlying cause — untreated endometriosis or PID — leads to fertility damage that could have been prevented.
At Mascot Healthcare, this consultation is conducted in a private room with a doctor of your choice of gender. We take a detailed history covering the character, location, and timing of pain; associated symptoms; contraceptive and obstetric history; and relevant psychological context. Where appropriate, we perform a pelvic examination and request a pelvic scan on the same day.
Private, expert assessment for dyspareunia at Mascot Healthcare, Akoka. Walk-in available.