Beyond a Diagnosis: A Qualitative Study of Women's Experiences of Painful Sexual Intercourse

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to explore the diverse aspects of sexual pain experiences among affected women.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted an interpretive description qualitative study and collected data using one-to-one semi-structured interviews. Participants were purposefully recruited for one-on-one semi-structured online interviews. Two independent reviewers analyzed the transcripts, and coding was finalized through consensus.

RESULTS: The study consisted of 31 women who self-identified as experiencing sexual pain with a mean age of 29 (SD=9.72) years and a mean pain duration of 53 (SD=41.93) months. We identified 6 main themes, including experience of living with pain, beliefs, behavior, search for help, treatments, and expectations.

DISCUSSION: This study revealed that sexual pain often begins with the first sexual encounter and may persist, deeply affecting personal and marital well-being. Pain was linked to factors such as trauma and biological dysfunctions. Participants employed various coping strategies and sought multiple treatments, though outcomes and satisfaction levels varied. Key facilitators of effective treatment were professional support and access to information, while significant barriers included shame and financial constraints. Satisfaction with health care largely depended on receiving a diagnosis, with future outlooks varying from hopelessness to optimism.