Dr. Deb,

I am a Spina Bifida patient, and have had 8 back operations as a result. I haven’t been sexually active in quite sometime; but in the past I have noticed major pain during intercourse. I have a throbbing pain and burning sensation that continues after intercourse especially if Orgasm happens. I do not know the cause because I have not tested positive for any STDs. I wanted to know if my nerve damage could be the problem?

Tarah

 

Dear  Tarah,

Pain with intercourse is known as dyspareunia. Some women have pain deep inside where their pelvic organs are, inside the vagina called vaginismus or just on the outside which is called the vulvadynia.

You did the first step by checking for STDs. I am not sure how that was done but you would need to have blood tests, cultures of your vagina as well as a wet prep looking for vaginitis or yeast infections.

A very thorough pelvic exam by a health practitioner is also necessary to assess for possible signs of endometriosis, enlarged ovaries or uterus or other pelvic problems. Bladder problems such as interstitial cystitis and bowel problems such as Irritable Bowel Disease can also cause pain during intercourse.

Your doctor may consider an ultrasound to look closer for pelvic problems.

You specifically ask about spina bifida operations. People with spina bifida should have wonderful sex lives. Sometimes they can have more problems with incontinence or latex allergies but pain with intercourse is not typical. Burning of the vagina could be a latex allergy from condoms. Multiple operations may cause scarring, nerve entrapment or tightening of your pelvic floor muscles.   Spina Bifida Info 

Some pain from intercourse can be a trigger from previous sexual abuse or poor body image. A therapist can be very helpful.

While I can’t give you the answer to your specific pain hopefully I can give some resources to get you started.

First read my blog, “Let you Monkey Breathe” for Dr. Deb’s VMP or Vaginal Maintenance Program which I think is critical for all women. I would also avoid latex condoms since you have spina bifida.

Click for educational websites on Vaginismus and Pelvic Pain

A physiotherapist that specializes in women’s health could be very beneficial since you have had multiple operations. They are physical therapists that work on the pelvis and vagina and can do amazing things in relieving pelvic pain and even treat incontinence. 

Physical Therapy Specialist

Click on Consumers and then the region in which you live and they will list PTs in your area.

Thanks for asking Dr. Deb. I know that you with a little help you can be rid of this pain and blossom into the fabulous sexual being that you are!

Dr. Deb