It will probably not come as a surprise that dyspareunia or pain involved with intercourse can have profound effects on one’s romantic relationships. This can be the case regardless of one’s sexual orientation, and pretty much universally as long as one or more partners in the relationship desire a healthy sex life.
Dyspareunia can result in reduced frequency of sexual activity, and this can result in other problems arising in the relationship.
Especially since dyspareunia and sexual issues can be difficult to talk about, even between romantic partners, one partner may not know or understand precisely why the sexual relationship is the way it is. Even if a partner is aware that the other suffers from dyspareunia, it may be difficult to empathize or fully understand the other’s position.
The self-esteem or sexual confidence of one or both partners may be affected. As such, it is important to find a forum in which these issues can be discussed and where each partner’s point of view can be presented, understood and respected. Ultimately, it should be the goal of both partners to help the other work through the emotional and physiological issues involved so that not only the sexual aspects, but the relationship as a whole, can bring the most joy possible.
Tags: Dyspareunia, Relationships