Painful Sex (Dyspareunia) Treatment for Women
Painful intercourse, or dyspareunia, can be especially distressing after childbirth. At Calyx, our experienced women’s health physiotherapists offer compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your postpartum recovery. Whether the cause is muscle tension, scar sensitivity, hormonal changes, or birth-related trauma, you’re not alone and support is available. If you are trying to conceive and looking for painful intercourse treatment: click here.
What Is Dyspareunia (Painful Sex) Treatment?
Physiotherapy for painful intercourse addresses underlying pelvic floor dysfunction, scar tissue, nerve sensitivity or hormonal changes that may be causing discomfort during intimacy. Our approach is personalised and compassionate, combining evidence-based techniques with education and gentle guidance.
Is This Safe for Me?
Yes. Treatment is always tailored to your comfort level and needs. We conduct a thorough assessment and work collaboratively with you, ensuring your emotional safety and informed consent at each step.
Who Should Consider Painful Intercourse Treatment?
Painful intercourse treatment is suitable for anyone experiencing discomfort, burning, tightness, or deep pain during or after intimacy. Whether symptoms are new or longstanding, treatment can help restore function and confidence.
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Do I Need a Referral?
No referral is needed. You can book directly with us. If needed, we’re happy to coordinate care with your OBGYN or GP.
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At Which Life Stage Does Painful Intercourse Commonly Occur?
Painful intercourse can occur at any stage of life, but it is especially common during certain transitions. These include the postpartum period, perimenopause and menopause, and sometimes during the early stages of becoming sexually active.
Symptoms and Signs You May Benefit from Painful Sex Intercourse Treatment
Common signs include:
- Sharp or burning pain during or after intercourse
- Painful insertion or tension at the vaginal opening
- Deep pelvic pain or cramping
- Fear or anxiety around intimacy due to pain
These symptoms may point to pelvic floor muscle overactivity, vaginal dryness, scar tissue, or hormonal shifts. They can also be linked to conditions such as endometriosis, postpartum healing, or past trauma.
What Happens During Your Session
Your session will include a full assessment, targeted treatment, movement guidance, and a clear plan to support ongoing recovery.
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Will There Be an Internal Vaginal Assessment?
To effectively treat dyspareunia, an internal vaginal assessment is often recommended. This allows your physiotherapist to better understand the underlying cause of your symptoms. However, the assessment is never done without your full consent.
We can also explore alternative methods such as external pelvic floor assessment or real-time ultrasound to gather information about your pelvic floor function. While these alternatives can still be helpful, they may provide limited insight compared to an internal assessment.
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Do I Need to Prepare or Bring Anything?
Just bring comfortable clothing and a willingness to share your experiences. A trusted friend or partner is welcome if that helps you feel at ease.
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What Happens After the Session?
You will leave with a clearer understanding of your condition and home exercises or breathing techniques to begin with. Your feedback guides each step.
Techniques and Tools We May Use
- Education on anatomy and pain science
- Pelvic floor retraining
- Scar tissue massage
- Desensitisation strategies
- Guided use of dilators
- Manual therapy to release pelvic floor tension
- Advice on lubricants and vaginal moisturisers
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Is It Painful or Uncomfortable?
Treatments are designed to relieve discomfort, not cause it. Most clients report feeling a sense of relief, control, and progress after their sessions.
Depending on the severity of your symptoms, you may initially experience sensations similar to your usual pain. However, your therapist will always proceed at a pace that feels safe and comfortable for you.
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How We Ensure Safety in Each Method
We practise trauma-informed care, which means nothing is ever done without your consent, and you are in control of the process. We pause or adjust as needed.
Your Progress and Results Over Time
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How Soon Will I See Improvement?
Improvement depends on the severity, chronicity, and underlying causes of your symptoms. In some cases, support from a gynaecologist, counsellor, or sex therapist may be needed. Your physiotherapist will work closely with you to set realistic expectations and guide you through each step of your recovery.
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How Often Will I Need Sessions?
The frequency of sessions depends on several factors, including your symptoms, goals, medical history, lifestyle demands, and how your body responds to treatment.
Your physiotherapist will first complete a thorough assessment to understand your condition fully before recommending a personalised treatment plan.
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Will I Need Maintenance Visits?
After early recovery, continued support can help you regain strength and confidence as you care for your baby and step into your new (or expanded) role as a mum. You may benefit from one-to-one check-ins or join Regrounded After Birth, our signature programme designed to support healing, movement, and a safe return to daily life and higher-level exercise.
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What Do I Need to Do at Home?
Your home care plan may include breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, gentle stretches, or the use of vaginal dilators. Consistency with home strategies can greatly support your recovery and help you feel more in control between sessions.
Why Women Trust Calyx for Painful Sex Intercourse Treatment
Calyx is Singapore’s women’s physiotherapy clinic, designed specifically for women by women. Our clinicians are trained in pelvic health, with deep empathy and a whole-person approach.
Are Sessions Covered by Insurance?
Physiotherapy coverage depends on your insurer and plan. We recommend checking directly with your provider. If needed, we’re happy to provide detailed invoices to support your claim.
What Makes Calyx Different?
We understand that painful intercourse is not just a physical issue. It’s emotional, relational, and personal. Our care reflects this. From our clinic environment to our communication style, everything is built with your dignity and safety in mind.
How Much Does It Cost?
We offer transparent session-based pricing. See price list.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
You do not need to suffer in silence. Our team is here to listen, support, and walk with you towards healing. Take the first step today.
