How to overcome fear of pain with dyspareunia?
Overcoming fear of pain with dyspareunia involves education, gradual exposure, relaxation strategies, and psychological therapy to break the pain-anxiety cycle.
Detailed Medical Explanation
The fear of pain often increases muscle tension and makes intercourse more difficult. Addressing this with accurate information, guided relaxation, breathing exercises, and stepwise desensitisation (for example, with pelvic physiotherapy) is key. Psychological therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) are highly effective in changing unhelpful thought patterns and reducing anxiety. NHS: Talking Therapies.
Clinical Context
Support from a women’s health clinician, physiotherapist, or psychologist can empower women to regain confidence and restore intimacy.
Evidence-Based Approaches
NICE guidelines recommend multidisciplinary, stepped approaches to break fear-avoidance cycles in persistent dyspareunia. NICE: Management of Chronic Pain.