What causes positional dyspareunia?
Positional dyspareunia is pain that occurs only in certain sexual positions, often due to anatomical or pelvic factors that cause discomfort during deeper penetration or specific angles.
Detailed Medical Explanation
Positional dyspareunia is frequently linked to internal pelvic conditions like fibroids, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, or pelvic adhesions, which can be aggravated by certain movements or depths of penetration. Sometimes, anatomical variations in the uterus or vagina contribute. Assessment by a clinician can help identify and address these factors. NHS: Painful Sex.
Clinical Context
Women with positional pain may benefit from trying different positions, using lubricants, or seeking medical evaluation for possible pelvic conditions.
Evidence-Based Approaches
NICE and RCOG recommend comprehensive assessment for positional dyspareunia, with imaging or specialist referral if pelvic disease is suspected. RCOG: Dyspareunia.