1. Yeast Infections

While the most common symptoms of a yeast infection are burning and itching, the build-up of yeast can affect directly inside the vagina as well as outside of the vagina. This can lead to tenderness and/or a sting during sex. Recurring thrush can also lead to tears or cracks in vaginal tissue which can cause light bleeding when irritated during sex. 

If you’re finding your thrush is recurring, there’s likely an environmental factor interfering with your body’s bacteria balances, bringing on that nasty, recurring overgrowth of yeast fungus (AKA, giving you thrush). You can learn more about how to stop recurring yeast infections forever, here.

Psst. thrush is highly contagious, so if you think you might have it, refrain from sex and chat with your GP pronto. 

2. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Many STIs like Herpes, Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea can cause pain in your nether regions during sex, due to inflammation. Keep up your regular STI checks and speak to your GP if you have any sudden and unusual pain during sex. DO NOT PUT THIS OFF! A lot of sexually transmitted infections have silent symptoms, whilst causing long term internal damage. The sooner you get onto it, the better. 

3. Vaginal Dryness

A lack of estrogen production is one of the main causes of vaginal dryness. This dryness can create friction and lead to pain during sex. If you feel like your vagina isn’t self-lubricating as it should and/or normally does, you should speak to your GP/GYNO.

If dryness is the norm for you, that's totally fine, some people product less natural lubricant than others. Here are a few tricks to try:

• Water-based, PH balanced lubricants 
• Really slowwwing down that foreplay to give you more time to self-lubricate before intercourse 

4. Endometriosis

Endometriosis affects at least 1 in 9 women in Australia alone. This confusing condition, where tissue that is similar to the lining of the uterus, grows outside of it instead. And causes all sorts of uncomfortableness and pain, often during sex. Bleeding can happen because penetration causes the uterine tissue to become irritated and tender. You can learn more about Endometriosis here. 

These are just 4 common causes of pain during sex. It's always best to consult with your GP/GYNO to get the the root of the cause.