Gynaecologist and obstetrician Dr Padi Ayertey has urged couples not to ignore pain during sexual intercourse, saying the condition is common, treatable and should be addressed early.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Home Affairs, Dr Ayertey said painful intercourse can affect both the body and the mind, especially when earlier painful experiences create fear, anxiety and emotional withdrawal during intimacy.
He explained that when a person expects pain, the body may respond with tension rather than relaxation. This can reduce natural lubrication and cause pelvic muscles to tighten, making intercourse more uncomfortable and sometimes worsening the problem over time.
“It’s a real thing,” he said, noting that a previous painful experience may shape how a woman responds during future attempts at intimacy.
According to Dr Ayertey, painful intercourse should not be dismissed as a minor complaint or treated as something a woman must simply endure. He said persistent pain must be taken seriously because it may point to physical, emotional or relational concerns that require proper attention.
In some cases, he said, the solution may be simple. He mentioned the use of good lubricants, adequate foreplay, patience and emotional readiness as interventions that may improve comfort. He also stressed that partners must communicate with care and avoid words or actions that increase pressure or anxiety.
Dr Ayertey said harsh comments, impatience or misunderstanding during intimacy can worsen the situation by increasing stress and reducing the body’s natural readiness. In his view, both partners have a responsibility to create an atmosphere of trust, gentleness and preparation.
He particularly cautioned couples against normalising repeated pain during intercourse. Where pain continues, he said, couples should seek medical advice to identify and treat the underlying cause.
“If she says she is having pain, we need to look for the cause of the pain and deal with it,” he said.
Medical experts generally describe painful intercourse as dyspareunia. It may be caused by several factors, including vaginal dryness, infection, inflammation, pelvic muscle tightening, injury, hormonal changes, anxiety, trauma or other underlying health conditions.
Health professionals advise that couples seek medical help when pain is persistent, severe, recurring or associated with bleeding, discharge, fever, pelvic pain or fear of intimacy. Early consultation may help prevent the condition from becoming a repeated cycle of pain, anxiety and avoidance.
Dr Ayertey’s comments add to growing public health conversations about sexual wellbeing, communication in marriage and the need to remove shame from treatable reproductive health concerns.
For many couples, experts say the most important first step is not blame, silence or pressure, but honest communication and timely professional help.
Health Note
This article is for public health education only. Anyone experiencing persistent pain during intercourse should speak to a qualified doctor, gynaecologist or licensed health professional for proper assessment and treatment.
