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womens health clinic faq

What is the difference between superficial and deep dyspareunia?

Superficial dyspareunia refers to pain at the entrance of the vagina, while deep dyspareunia is pain felt deeper in the pelvis during intercourse.

Clinical Context

Identifying whether pain is superficial or deep is essential, as it directs further assessment and treatment. For example, superficial pain may benefit from topical therapies and pelvic floor therapy, while deep pain may require gynaecological investigations or surgery.

Evidence-Based Approaches

Clinical guidelines, such as those from NICE and RCOG, recommend a stepwise approach to diagnosis. Multidisciplinary care and addressing underlying causes are supported by strong evidence. RCOG leaflet.