How do doctors diagnose dyspareunia?
Doctors diagnose dyspareunia by taking a detailed medical and sexual history, conducting a physical and pelvic examination, and sometimes ordering targeted tests based on symptoms.
Detailed Medical Explanation
Diagnosis begins with an open discussion of symptoms, including pain location, severity, and duration. The doctor will check for signs of infection, skin conditions, pelvic floor dysfunction, or hormonal changes. Sometimes, further testing—such as swabs, urine tests, ultrasound, or bloodwork—is needed to rule out underlying causes. NHS: Painful Sex.
Clinical Context
Accurate diagnosis may require more than one visit. Early assessment helps prevent chronic pain and distress.
Evidence-Based Approaches
NHS and NICE recommend a multidisciplinary and compassionate approach to diagnosing dyspareunia. NICE: Heavy Menstrual Bleeding.