Dyspareunia - Treatment Options

Depending on your history, the results of your pelvic exam and other diagnostic tests, your doctor will develop a personalized treatment plan.

Your treatment plan for dyspareunia may include some of the following options:

Position change – In the case of a tipped uterus, a change in position may allow the uterus to move and result in more comfortable intercourse.
Medications – In the case of an infection , treatment with medication often solves the problem.
Relaxation exercises – Relaxation exercises may help a woman regain control over vaginal muscles, reducing pain and making sexual intercourse more pleasurable.
Surgery – If diagnostic tests determine that a physical problem, such as endometriosis or a tipped uterus could be responsible for the pain, surgery may be recommended. Many procedures can be done with laparoscopy. In the case of a tipped uterus the UPLIFT procedure may be recommended by your doctor.
Physical therapy - This may be used as part of a comprehensive pelvic pain therapy program. A physical therapist will evaluate your muscle and bone structure as part of a comprehensive examination. This includes your posture, how you walk, abdomen, your pelvis and legs. You may also have an internal examination to evaluate the muscles of your pelvic floor. Any abnormalities, muscle weakness, tenderness or stiffness or very sensitive areas will be noted as well.

Therapy may include manipulating body parts externally or internally that will improve muscle strength or alignment. You may be given a series of specific exercises to stretch or strengthen certain muscles. Additional treatment may include the use of electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), muscle stimulators, ultrasound, biofeedback, relaxation and breathing exercises. Injection into trigger points (extremely sensitive muscle points) may be used to decrease or eliminate the source of the pain.