dyspareunia
Pronunciation: dis-pah-ROO-nee-ah
Painful or difficult sexual intercourse, which may be superficial (at vaginal entry) or deep (with penetration).
Full Definition
Dyspareunia refers to persistent or recurrent pain experienced during sexual intercourse, affecting approximately 10-20% of women at some point in their lives. The condition is classified as either superficial (pain at the vaginal entrance) or deep (pain with deep penetration). Superficial dyspareunia may result from vulvar conditions, inadequate lubrication, infections, or vestibulodynia, while deep dyspareunia often stems from conditions such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, ovarian cysts, or uterine fibroids. Diagnosis requires careful history-taking and physical examination, including assessment for anatomical abnormalities, infections, and psychological factors. Treatment is tailored to the underlying cause and may include medical therapy, physical therapy, or psychological counseling.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish between superficial and deep dyspareunia in clinical documentation as they suggest different etiologies.
In Context
- "The patient reports severe dyspareunia that began six months ago, particularly with deep penetration." — gynecological history
- "Physical examination revealed no obvious cause for the patient's superficial dyspareunia; vulvodynia is suspected." — examination findings