Sex is a wonderful thing. It brings you and your husband closer; it is a way to show your love and desire. But even what’s intended to bring pleasure can hurt! Women’s sex injuries can happen, and they’re just as painful as you can imagine.
You’ve likely heard of vaginismus or the sudden, involuntary tightening of the vagina upon penetration followed by intense pain. Though the exact cause is still unclear, some believe it is linked to fear or anxiety when it comes to sex. But there are women’s sex injuries to watch out for.
Let’s take a closer look at one of the most overlooked women’s sex injuries – a bruised cervix.
What you should know about having a bruised cervix and other women’s sex injuries
The most common cause of a bruised cervix, as with other women’s sex injuries, is a deep, penetrative thrusting, or rough, vigorous sex with a well-endowed partner. In some cases, it can even cause tearing.
A bruised cervix can be painful, but it can heal on its own! Just remember to consult your gynae for any untoward symptoms, like bleeding and fever.
The risk of cervical bruising largely depends on your anatomy as well as your husband’s. If your hubby is well-endowed and you have a shorter vaginal canal, then it’s easier for cervical bruising to happen.
Once cervical bruising happens during sex, it can be extremely painful. If the pain persists, you must call your OB-gynaecologist to know if your cervix has indeed been bruised.
Understanding the cervix
Your cervix separates your vagina from your uterus. It is often viewed as the “neck of the uterus.” Basically it looks like a “pink button” that is tender, firm, and smooth to the touch (not that you should attempt to feel it, unless you want to!)
The cervix serves two functions: first, it is the protective gateway of your uterus. Second, it helps throughout pregnancy. How does it do this? By helping the sperm reach the egg, sealing your baby inside the uterus, and opening up once the baby is allowed to be born.
When a doctor measures a mum-to-be’s dilation during labour, this actually means they are checking how “open” the cervix is.
Your cervical mucous changes depending on your menstrual and ovulation cycle!
Depending on where you are on your menstrual cycle, the cervix may or may not have copious amounts of mucous. Cervical mucous is creamier at the start of your cycle, and it becomes watery and sticky when you’re about to ovulate.
The cervix can grow or change shape, depending on your hormone levels. Remember that as the penis can increase in size, so too can the vagina when aroused.
Other common women’s sex injuries to watch out for:
- Vaginal tearing. This is usually caused by insufficient lubrication. Vigorous sex can cause the vagina to dry up, so it’s best to keep things lubricated.
- Pulled muscles. Because you can be super “into it,” you might not notice that you are overexerting yourself. Ibuprofen or other pain meds usually do the trick, as well as cold compress and rest.
- Infections. Though STIs are rare, especially in committed relationships, you should still be careful with infections like UTIs and yeast infections. This is usually caused by poor hygiene before sex.
- Rug burns. If you’ve ever done it on a surface other than a smooth mattress, then you might have experienced carpet or rug burns. Cool water and antibacterial soap usually does the trick.
With all of this information about women’s sex injuries in mind, be sure to consult your doctor if you suspect you experienced any of them. Don’t be embarrassed!
How to prevent a bruised cervix
If you have ever felt a little sore down there after having sex with your husband, know that it can often be remedied through rest and switching up sex positions. Of course, consulting your gynaecologist is the most important step when you notice unusual symptoms.
Here are some ways to prevent soreness and bruising:
If your hubby is particularly well endowed, try sex positions where you are in control, like cowgirl or woman on top. This way, you can keep penetration at a level that’s both comfortable and pleasurable.
Certain sex positions. like woman-on-top, can help reduce soreness after sex!
Dr. Idries Abdur-Rahman recommends putting lubricant in your vagina after sex, which he believes soothes and moisturises, just like lotion does.
Make sure you make time for foreplay. The right level or arousal stimulates natural lubrication.
Take it slow! Yes, going fast can be pleasurable sometimes, but talk to your husband about avoiding too much friction. Dr. Rahman tells SELF magazine that placing cold compress outside your panties for 10-15 minutes can help if you do feel sore.
Talk to your gynaecologist about possible infections or conditions that might be causing the discomfort. Remember that it’s not always the roughness or the anatomy of your partner that could be the culprit.
Lastly, explore a possible sensitivity to latex as well, because this might be causing your discomfort.
Sex shouldn’t hurt, mums!
By taking the right measures now you can have a truly hot and fulfilling sex life. You can be free to enjoy the romance without thinking about horror stories in the bedroom.
Sources: Women’s Health, Bustle.com, Self.com