If you’re experiencing intimate pain, you may worry about it a lot, yet still feel uncomfortable or embarrassed to talk about it or seek help.
You’re not alone. Intimate pain is common, can be temporary or chronic, and can range from mild to severe. Across different life stages, discomfort can result from pelvic floor dysfunction or changes in the vaginal environment and microbial balance, which can lead to irritation, dryness, infections, and pain during sex. These symptoms are often linked.
Here are some of the most common conditions by age group, and what you can do.