Sexual & Reproductive Health
Pain During Sex: Diagnosis and Treatment
Pain during intercourse has an identifiable cause in the great majority of cases, and an identifiable treatment. It is assessed confidentially by Dr. Payal Mahapatra, a female gynecologist.
Who this is for
This page is for anyone experiencing pain during intercourse, whether occasional or persistent, new or long-standing. It has happened more than a few times, or is getting worse: that is the point at which it is worth booking a consultation rather than waiting.
Causes
What can cause pain during sex
- Vaginal infections, including bacterial vaginosis, yeast infection or trichomoniasis
- Vaginismus, an involuntary tightening of the vaginal muscles
- Endometriosis, causing deep pain with intercourse
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Vaginal dryness related to hormonal change, including around menopause
- Structural conditions, assessed where other causes are ruled out
What the evaluation involves
A detailed history is taken first, covering when the pain started, where it is felt, and whether it is linked to a particular position or point of penetration. A gentle pelvic examination follows, at a pace you set, and can be paused or stopped at any point. Further testing, such as a pelvic ultrasound or infection screening, is arranged where the history and examination point to it.
| Cause | Typical treatment |
|---|---|
| Vaginal infection | Targeted medication once the specific infection is identified |
| Vaginismus | Targeted physiotherapy and, where needed, graded desensitisation support |
| Endometriosis | Hormonal therapy or laparoscopic surgery, depending on severity |
| Hormonal dryness | Topical or hormonal treatment matched to your history |
| Pelvic inflammatory disease | Prompt antibiotic treatment to limit damage to the fallopian tubes |
Pelvic pain together with discharge should be seen the same week. Untreated pelvic infection can scar the fallopian tubes within weeks and affect future fertility.
What to expect at the visit
Consultations, testing and results are confidential. Dr. Payal Mahapatra conducts the consultation and any examination personally. If confidentiality is a particular concern, say so at the start of the visit.
Clinical volume
Treated by Dr. Payal Mahapatra
MBBS, DGO, DNB - OBG, Fellowship in Reproductive Medicine. As of August 2026.
18
Years Experience
80k
Patients Treated
6.7k
IUI procedures
3.7k
Fertility surgeries
2k
IVF cycles
1k
Deliveries
FAQ
Questions patients ask
Book a confidential consultation
Pain during intercourse can be assessed and treated. Book a confidential appointment with Dr. Payal Mahapatra.
Monday to Sunday, 09:30 to 18:30