Endometriosis can cause pain that may make it difficult to have or enjoy sex. This is especially true if your partner engages in penetrative sexual activity. There are many sex poses that will reduce your pain and allow you to reclaim the sex experience.
The gynecological surgeon Miguel Luna MD says that painful sex can be a common sign of endometriosis. The main thing to do is experiment with different sex positions and other ways of finding pleasure. It is important that partners understand the pain of sex and create an environment where they can feel comfortable.
Be sure that you and your partner have the same goals when experimenting. Your feelings should be communicated before, during, and after sexual activity. If you have to change your approach or stop, being open can reduce stress.
Remember, if you are in pain or do not feel like having sex, you should not force yourself to do so or let your partner force you.
Prepare for sex if you have endometriosis
You might think that sex is something that should happen spontaneously. If you suffer from a chronic illness, you can improve your sexual experience with your partner by preparing.
Tracking your feelings throughout your cycle is a good idea. Plan sex according to predictable periods in your cycle where you feel less pain.
Have the following supplies readily available:
- Lubricant Endometriosis can cause dryness of the vaginal area by interfering in your sexual arousal pathways. Water-based or silicone-based lubricants can reduce friction, and improve comfort.
- Penile bumper This soft, donut-shaped ring fits over the base of your partner’s penis to prevent deep penetration.
- Pillows – You can find more comfort by using a regular pillow, a specially designed cushion, or a wedge.
- Towel People with endometriosis may bleed after sexual activity. Plan for this by placing a towel on the floor.
Find the best sex position to reduce pelvic discomfort
It may take some time to find what works for you. In general, strategies for reducing pain during sex help by:
- Reduce the depth of penetration.
- Change the angle of penetration so that the penile head strikes the front of the vagina and not the back.
Dr. Luna suggests these positions for reducing endometriosis discomfort during sex.
1. Take the top!
You can control the speed and depth of penetration by being on top. The angle of the body can be adjusted in many ways.
- Face-to-face.
- Backward.
- Lotus: Your partner will sit cross-legged on the floor with you on top.
- Sideways.
2. Missionary position with elevated Pelvis
The penile angle is a major reason why many people find the missionary (on their backs with your partner on the top) uncomfortable. Dr. Luna recommends modifying the position. Your partner should stand at the foot of the bed. Lay on your back and scooch to the edge. Elevate your hips with a wedge or pillow.
3. Sideways sex
You and your partner will lie sideways, either spooning or face-to-face. You can control the depth and thrusting of penetration in this relaxed position.
4. Modified doggy style
The Doggy Style (you on your all-fours, with your partner behind) is usually painful and involves a deep penetration. Dr. Luna recommends changing the position of your partner by arching the back.
You can also lay on your stomach and have your partner rest on top of you for a full-body touch. In this position, a pillow placed under your hips or stomach can help provide support.
5. Non-penetrative sex
You and your partner may find enjoyment without sexual contact if penetration is painful. You can also try mutual masturbation and oral sex. There are also many vibrators and sex toys that do not require vaginal penetration.
What causes pain in the genital area during endometriosis?
Endometriosis occurs when tissue that is similar to the uterine lining, (endometrium), grows outside of your uterus. This tissue sheds every month, causing inflammation and scarring.
Endometriosis is not felt the same by everyone . “Endometriosis behind the cervix, vagina and uterus is especially painful when sex occurs,” says Dr. Luna. The upper part of the vagina provides a lot of pleasure when you are piercing. If you are in the missionary position, the head of your penis will usually hit this area.
Is endometriosis treatable?
Endometriosis is not curable, but your healthcare provider can help you manage the symptoms.
medications, surgery and chemotherapy are the most common treatments. Some medications can control symptoms, including hormone therapy and pain medication. Surgery can be a long-term solution for some patients. Other options include:
- Alternative therapies include acupuncture, Yoga and HTML2_ massage HTML2_.
- Pain psychology.
- Physical therapy for the pelvic floor.
Dr. Luna says, “We treat pain at its source so that you can enjoy life and have more sex.”
