FIND PLEASURE OVER PAIN WITH ENDOMETRIOSIS
March marks Endometriosis Awareness Month, but many women are still unaware of it. Endometriosis occurs when tissue that normally resides in the uterus grows outside of it. This tissue can be found in the ovaries or fallopian tubes. Endometriosis affects approximately 10% of women between the ages of 25 and 40 and affects an estimated 200 million women worldwide, although the cause remains unknown.
Symptoms
Persistent or recurring pain during sexual intercourse, known as dyspareunia, is one of the most common symptoms of endometriosis. Other symptoms include heavy menstrual bleeding and painful periods. The type of pain can vary from person to person, including the location, duration, and types of sexual movements or positions that trigger pain during or after sex.
A study recent found that women with endometriosis experienced emotional and relational distress due to their sexual pain. Sexual pain also impacted sexual desire, with 88% of women reporting having discontinued intercourse. Fifty-nine% of women reported avoiding intercourse due to pain.
Solutions
Anyone who experiences unwanted pain during sex should talk to their partners and doctors. Sex doesn't have to be a painful experience, and there are ways to reduce pain during sex. According to the International Society of Sexual Medicine Here are some ways to thrive with endometriosis:
Know that you have options You don't have to face or deal with your sexual pain alone. Unfortunately, only about half of women talk about their pain with their partners and providers.
Contact us Talk to your healthcare providers and doctors. When seeking medical treatment, look for a provider who makes you feel comfortable. During your appointment, describe your pain, including when it started, how long it lasted, its location, and how it feels (i.e., stinging, burning, stabbing). Talk to your provider about all your options, which may include hormonal and surgical options.
Understand your body : Recognize and communicate the types of sexual experiences that bring you pleasure. This can include non-penetrative activities such as kissing, fondling, oral sex, etc. You can also try various positions, especially if you experience pain with deep penetration. Using a lubricant is also a helpful tool. You may want to consider a CBD lubricant that is long-lasting and reduces discomfort.
Try alternative coping strategies Some women may choose to seek options that don't involve surgery or hormones. These other options may include relaxation, mindfulness, sex therapy, counseling, or support groups.
Remember, sexual communication is important and vital to a healthy sex life. Endometriosis doesn't have to prevent you from having a satisfying sex life; it may simply require some adjustments.
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