Does Sex Hurt? The Cause You Haven’t Considered

It is indicated on television and the media that sex is a pleasure and in most cases pleasing. This could be in the form of couples embracing each other and having satisfaction on their faces. On deeper reflection, however, many people find that having sex is painful. According to studies, up to 20 percent of women find that they experience pain during sex, though this could be more due to underreporting. What causes painful sex? Whereas there are many different factors, both physical and psychological, that may contribute to pain during sex, there is one cause that most of us generally tend to ignore: inadequate sexual education.

Growing up, most of us are taught the basics of reproduction and anatomy, but rarely are we educated on the intricacies of sexual pleasure and potential pain. As a result, many people enter into sexual experiences without a proper understanding of their own bodies and what feels good and what doesn’t. This lack of knowledge can lead to a variety of issues that can cause pain during sex.

Firstly, inadequate sexual education can lead to a lack of communication between sexual partners. Many people are embarrassed or uncomfortable discussing their desires, boundaries, and any pain they may be experiencing with their partner. This can result in painful experiences, as partners may not know how to properly stimulate each other or may not be aware of any potential discomfort. Without open and honest communication, it is difficult for partners to fully understand and meet each other’s needs, leading to dissatisfaction and even pain during sex.

Furthermore, a lack of sexual education can result in a lack of understanding of the different types of sexual pleasure and how to achieve them. Many people, especially women, are not aware of the importance of arousal and lubrication in reducing friction and potential pain during sex. Without this knowledge, individuals may not know how to properly prepare themselves for intercourse, leading to discomfort and even pain.

Another factor that is often overlooked is the impact of societal and cultural norms. In many societies, there is a stigma surrounding sex and a lack of open discussion about it. This can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and anxiety about sexual experiences. These negative emotions can cause individuals to tense up and experience pain during sex, as well as hinder their ability to communicate with their partner.

The Importance of Sexual Health and Hygiene:

One of the primary ways in which inadequate sexual education can lead to painful sex is through a lack of knowledge about sexual health and hygiene. Proper lubrication, hygiene, and sexual health practices are essential in preventing pain and discomfort during intercourse. However, many people are not aware of the importance of these practices, which can lead to a range of issues. For example, a lack of lubrication can cause friction during sex, leading to discomfort and pain. Similarly, poor hygiene can increase the risk of infections, which can cause inflammation and pain. Furthermore, a lack of knowledge about sexual health practices, such as regular STI testing, can increase the risk of sexually transmitted infections, which can cause pain and discomfort during intercourse.

The Perpetuation of Harmful Societal Beliefs and Myths:

Inadequate sexual education can also contribute to the perpetuation of harmful societal beliefs and myths about sex, which can lead to painful sex. For example, the belief that sex should be painful for women is a harmful myth that can cause individuals to feel abnormal or broken if they experience pain during intercourse. This belief can discourage individuals from seeking help and can perpetuate feelings of shame and embarrassment. Similarly, the belief that men are always ready for sex can lead to individuals feeling inadequate or ashamed if they experience difficulty becoming aroused or maintaining an erection, which can cause pain and discomfort during intercourse.

Additionally, inadequate sexual education can perpetuate the myth that pain during sex is normal or to be expected. This myth can prevent individuals from seeking help or talking about their pain, which can lead to long-term issues and further perpetuate the belief that pain during sex is normal.

On the whole, although many physical and psychological factors may engender sex-related pain, the effect of inadequate sexual education cannot actually be ruled out. This can cause problems that lead to painful intercourse because of our lack of knowledge and understanding about our bodies, feelings of sexual pleasure, and sexual health. The key is to equip all people with full and proper sexual education on communication, consent, pleasure, and sexual health. Abstinence, education, and self-instruction can lead us toward a society where everyone is having pleasurable, pain-free sex.

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