what to do if sex hurts
Painful sex seems to be the “dirty secret” that many of my female clients struggle with. They often have intercourse just as frequently as other couples do, but hide the pain from their partner. Often because painful sex is simply not spoken about in culture, or seen in pornography. Many women are left thinking, “well...I...
Painful Sex – Dyspareunia
Dyspareunia (dis-puh-ROO-nee-uh), is the term for painful sex that is characterised by recurring pain in the genital area, or within the pelvis, during sexual intercourse. The pain can be sharp or intense. It can occur before, during, or after sexual intercourse. Dyspareunia can be experienced by both men and women, though it is more common...
Vaginal Dryness
Because the vagina is covered in a thin layer of mucus that protects it, vaginal dryness can be a source of frustration for many women. This may prevent women from discussing symptoms with their physician or partner; however, the condition is a common occurrence that affects every woman at some point in her life. Effects...
Painful Sex – Vaginismus
Painful sex can be a difficult topic to discuss because it is the opposite of what sex should be. For many of the women who experience painful intercourse, they feel that there is something wrong with them for not enjoying sex as much as their friends. It can also cause some serious issues in relationships....
Sex & Emotions
Sex can be the ultimate expression of love and intimacy. A profound spiritual experience. An emotional roller coaster. A tension reliever. About procreation. Simply a way to have fun. It can be all of these things and more. Sex means different things to different people. And whatever it means to one person isn’t necessarily constant,...
What Every Woman Needs To Know About STI’s
More than 1 million sexually transmitted infections (STI’s) are acquired every day worldwide. These infections and diseases (STIs and STDs) are transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sexual contact. An STI for vagina owners can include symptoms such as vaginal itching, rashes, unusual discharge, and pain. Many STIs have no symptoms at all, but...
My Partner Has HIV – Now What?
South Africa has the highest HIV rate in the world. Research indicates that 1 in 5 South Africans is HIV positive. That means that it is likely that you may be in a relationship with someone why is HIV positive, and will almost definitely know someone else who is. This makes it important for all...
HIV – Mixed-Status Couples
For a long time sexual relationships between people with different HIV statuses from each other were considered off-limits. Thankfully, we now have resources available to mixed-status couples to reduce the risk of HIV transmission. Like everything else with sexual relationships, preventing HIV transmission is a team effort. It’s important for both partners in mixed-status couples...
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI’s)
Sexually transmitted infections (STI’s) are infections that spread through sexual contact (unprotected vaginal, oral, anal sex). This includes skin-to-skin contact. Depending on the specific STI, infections may also be transmitted through sharing needles and breastfeeding. The only guaranteed method to prevent STI’s is to abstain from all sexual contact. However, when engaging in sexual activity,...
Overcome Sexual Shame
For many people, even the mention of the word “sex” can trigger embarrassment or shame. Perhaps even anger. Helping individuals and couples overcome issues related to sexual shame is a passion of mine. Sex and sexuality are God-given gifts is to be embraced. Unfortunately for many, their backgrounds and upbringings result in a skewed perception...
