Pain

Pain associated with sex 

This tends to be more common among people with a vulva but those with a penis can experience penile or anal pain with sex. In people with a vulva the pain is usually at the vaginal entrance on penetration but can be deeper inside during intercourse. Vaginismus is the term given to tightness around the vaginal entrance due to the vaginal muscles and can cause penetration to be impossible.

In people with a penis a condition called Phimosis can cause tightness of the foreskin and discomfort. Pain during sex could be caused by a number of factors so it is best to seek advice from your GP or one of our sexual and reproductive health services. There are self-help options and links to other organisations here.