In this Article

• What is the most common cause of sex problems among couples?
• What is the most common sexual condition affecting men?
• What is the true definition of erectile dysfunction -- and what are the most common causes?
• What causes sexual dysfunction in women?
• What causes pain in the penis?
• Why is intercourse painful for some women?
• What is retrograde ejaculation -- and how is it treated?
• Is having an erection for an extended period of time dangerous?
• Which medications commonly cause sex problems for men or women?
• Is it true that sex can actually give some people a headache?
• Sexual Health Overview Glossary
• Sexual Health Overview Index

What causes pain in the penis?

Like in any other part of the body, pain in the penis can be the result of many things, including infection, trauma, or disease. Excessive manipulation can sometimes lead to pain, as can simple things such as insect bites or pimples. At the same time, painful lesions or sores on the penis may be genital herpes or another infection. Additionally, prostate inflammation, urethritis (an infection of the urinary tube frequently caused by gonorrhea or chlamydia), and sometimes sickle cell anemia can also cause penile pain. A condition known as Peyronie's disease results in an abnormal bend in the penis that makes intercourse painful for a man. In rare instances, pain can be a sign of penile cancer, so always check with your doctor if discomfort is significant and does not subside within a few days.

Why is intercourse painful for some women?

Medically known as dyspareunia, in up to 80% of women the cause is physiological. This can be the result of a decrease in female hormones leading to vaginal dryness, the presence of yeast or other sexually transmitted infections, cystitis or urethritis (infections of the urinary tract), or certain orthopaedic problems. In some instances, even chronic constipation may play a role. A condition known as vulvar vestibulitis, an inflammation in a particular area of the vagina, is the most commonly overlooked cause of dyspareunia.

A specific type of dyspareunia known as vaginismus causes involuntary spasms of the muscles within the vagina. In some instances, they can be so strong, the vagina seals shut making penetration extremely painful or sometimes, impossible. It often has roots in psychological trauma.

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• Birth Control Pills (Oral Contraceptives) - Read about the different types of birth control pills (oral contraceptives) such as monophasic, biphasic, and triphasic. Find out which birth control pill may be the best for you.
• Pap Smear - Read about Pap smear, a test to screen for cervical cancer, and precancerous changes in the cervix. Risk factors for abnormal Pap include HPV, smoking medicaitons, and a weakened immune system.
• Yeast Infection - Learn about vaginal yeast infection symptoms like vaginal burning, itching, soreness discharge, and pain during sex and urination. Treatment information is included in the information.

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