Is painful sex normal?

It's common, but that doesn't mean you have to accept it. There are often identifiable, treatable causes, and it's worth discussing with a clinician.

Will I need an examination?

Sometimes an examination helps identify the cause, always with your consent and at your pace. A sensitive history is the starting point.

Painful Sex: Causes & When to Seek Help

Name: Painful Sex: Causes & When to Seek Help | Gynaec.com.au
Creator: Dr Priya Sivadas
Published: 2026-06-25

Painful sex: possible causes and support

Pain during or after sex (dyspareunia) is common, and understandably distressing. It's a valid reason to seek help, and it's not something you have to just live with.

This page explains possible causes and where to seek support, sensitively.

Key points

Painful sex (dyspareunia) is common and worth discussing.
Causes can be physical, hormonal, or related to pelvic floor muscles.
It is not something you have to simply put up with.
Support and assessment are available.

Last reviewed 25 June 2026

Possible causes

There are many possible causes, and sometimes more than one is involved.

Vaginal dryness or hormonal changes
Infections
Pelvic floor muscle tension
Conditions such as endometriosis
Vulval or skin conditions

Diagnosis: what to expect

A specialist will take a sensitive history and, with your consent, may examine you and arrange relevant tests to identify the cause.

When to see a specialist

If sex is painful, persistently or recently, it's worth seeking review. There are causes that can be addressed, and support is available.

Frequently asked questions

Sources & further reading

This page is structured around information from reputable Australian health bodies:

More plain-language reading from Dr Sivadas.

Pelvic PainChronic pelvic pain MenopauseVaginal & urinary changes EndometriosisTreatment options Pelvic PainOvarian cysts

Written & medically reviewed by

Dr Priya Sivadas

FRANZCOG, CREI, MMed · Fertility and Gynaecology Specialist

Last reviewed: 25 June 2026

Read Dr Sivadas's profile

drpriyasivadas.com.au

Experiencing painful sex?

Appointments are managed on the practice site.

Request an appointment

Consulting locations

Parramatta

Monash IVF

Level 2, 1 Fennell Street
Parramatta NSW 2151

Bella Vista

Norwest Private Hospital

Suite 106, 11 Norbrik Drive
Bella Vista NSW 2153

Penrith

Somerset Specialist Centre

Level 3/38 Somerset St
Penrith NSW 2747