If dryness is a problem for you or your partner, try using a water-based lubricant, such as K-Y Jelly or Astroglide. This may help decrease your pain level and make sex more enjoyable for both of you![3] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Proper lubrication will also help maintain a healthy pH balance in your vagina and prevent painful infections. [4] X Trustworthy Source Cedars Sinai Hospital Website of one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Doing some deep breathing, meditation, or light stretching Asking your partner for an intimate massage Taking time to cuddle and hold each other before getting naughty Listening to relaxing, romantic music to get you in the mood Taking a warm shower or bath
Kiss and touch each other intimately Share fantasies or dirty talk Watch something together that you both find arousing Use vibrators or other sex toys
Masturbating or using a sex toy to reach orgasm Having sex with a partner Resting and waiting for your arousal to naturally pass Distracting yourself with an activity not related to sex Using a cold compress on your genitals or taking a cold shower
For instance, you might feel more comfortable doing missionary (face-to-face sex), having sex in a spooning position, or straddling your partner. Remember, penetrative sex isn’t the only kind of sex! If you can’t find a comfortable position, have fun experimenting with other kinds of sex, like oral sex, frottage (dry humping), using toys, or mutual masturbation. [12] X Research source
It’s possible that you are allergic to additives—such as dyes, perfumes, or flavors—in your lube, condoms, or other products that you use during sex. If you’re allergic to latex, go for condoms made of other materials, such as polyurethane or lambskin. [15] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Using a vaginal dilator to help gently stretch and relax your vagina[18] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Doing pelvic floor exercises to relax and strengthen the muscles in your vagina and pelvis[19] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Using creams to numb your vulva or vagina and relieve pain Seeing a therapist to address anxiety or other underlying issues that might be causing your vaginal tension and pain
Tight or overactive pelvic floor muscles[21] X Research source Sexually transmitted diseases Gynecological conditions, such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, or pelvic inflammatory disease Psychological issues, such as depression or anxiety A hormone imbalance, or natural hormone changes related to aging Inflammation of the prostate A tight foreskin Inflammation or infection in the testicles
