Pain During Sex: How to Help When Your Partner Has Endometriosis

Most often when a guy focuses on penis problems, he’s looking at ways to treat a persistent penis odor or to "fix" a reluctant erection or to find out what that unhealthy looking growth really is. But sometimes penis problems can involve one’s female partner(s) instead. For example, it’s a problem for a guy’s penis if his partner has pain during sex due to endometriosis.

What is this condition?

Because people tend to be more knowledgeable about sexual issues, there is more knowledge now about endometriosis - but many men still know little about it except that it can be hard to pronounce. So what exactly is endometriosis?

When a woman has endometriosis, it means that the endometrium, which is a layer of tissue that should be lining the inside of the uterus, is instead growing outside of the uterus - typically around the ovaries, fallopian tubes and surrounding area.

As one can imagine, this is not exactly comfortable, and in fact generally causes some degree of pelvic pain in women - a chronic case of it in about half of women with endometriosis. And even more affected women experience pain from it when they are menstruating.

Not surprisingly, penetrative sex can also cause extreme discomfort. How much pain (and how often it occurs during sex) depends upon the specific circumstances of an individual. But for many women, it can be a frequent reason to avoid penetrative sex - and understandably so.

For partners of women with endometriosis, of course, it can be frustrating. But it’s important to understand that this pain is quite real and caring and committed partners need to work together to find ways to enjoy sex together even when endometriosis is creating a pain barrier.

Things to do

First and foremost, partners need to communicate. Sometimes a woman may be shy or embarrassed and may not wish to tell her partner about this issue. But if two people are in a committed relationship, it needs to be talked about - and so if a man notices that his partner is reluctant to have sex or seems to be experiencing pain, he should talk about this observation and, gently, ask if there is anything that might be causing the situation.

The discussions should be open and honest - but respectful - and cover both what the woman and the man are feeling.

Couples should also discuss practical possible solutions. For example, it may be necessary to accept that there will be certain times when penetrative sex is off the table. They should be prepared to explore oral sex or mutual masturbation as alternatives. Or penetrative sex may be an option, but it may mean exploring different positions to find one which is not painful. If lubrication has not previously been much-used in their sex life together, the couple may need to add a quality lubricant to their lovemaking.

Dealing with endometriosis can be challenging - but men in a committed relationship definitely need to be prepared to alter their traditional methods of operating to make sure that sex is as enjoyable for their partners as it is for them.

Changing sex patterns due to endometriosis is just one of the many penis problems a man may encounter. Having a healthy penis often helps him overcome penis problems, so daily application of a first class penis health creme (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin) can help. The best cremes will include a range of vitamins, including A, B5, C, D, and E, and their topical application in crème will enable them to target the penis specifically. The ideal crème will also include L-carnitine, which has neuroprotective properties which help maintain delicate penis sensitivity.

Semen Allergy - When Sex May Lead to Pain

Allergies. Some people puff up at the mere sight of a peanut; others get itchy and blotchy if a furry friend is in the neighborhood; and some sneeze at dust and pollen. Allergies are not uncommon, and more people are aware of them - which is good news for those individuals who need soy-free, nut-free, dairy-free and gluten-free foods. But what happens when one is plagued with a slightly more unusual allergy?

A semen allergy is one such allergy that most people haven’t even heard of - and some may even claim it to be an unlikely excuse to get out of sex. Sorry honey, not tonight, my semen allergies are acting up. But, the fact of the matter is, semen allergies do exist; and they can be dangerous and even life-threatening if left untreated. Learn more about this rare medical phenomenon and how to enjoy a normal and satisfying sex life, as well as keeping the penis healthy.

What is a semen allergy?
Individuals who struggle with semen allergies are allergic to a specific protein in a man’s ejaculate which causes them various unpleasant symptoms. The most common symptoms for this condition include: itching, burning, redness, hives and swelling wherever the semen touches the skin. The severity can range from an annoying irritation - to acute pain. Individuals with severe semen allergies can even go into anaphylactic shock and have difficulty breathing; the risk of this occurring may increase if they ingest it orally. While women are more likely to have the allergy, it is also possible for men to be allergic to semen - even to their own ejaculate! Additionally, men and women alike may have a history of sexual experiences in the past with no problems -- only to develop the allergy later in life. It is also possible to be allergic only to a certain man’s semen, but not to others. That’s like being deathly allergic to one brand name of peanuts, yet being able to eat another kind just fine - the human body is full of mystery!

Can it be treated?
Thankfully, just because one is allergic to semen does not mean one’s sex life has to come to a full stop. There are many ways an individual can work around a semen allergy in order to maintain a healthy and satisfying sex life.

1) Prevention: The first trick is to minimize contact with semen as much as possible. That means using condoms all the time. This will drastically reduce the chance of coming into contact with a man’s semen and experiencing pain during sex.

2) Wash up: If semen does come into contact with the skin, the second best option is to wash the skin with soap and water immediately. Hopping in the shower after a romp in the sack is a good way to reduce the painful side effects of a semen allergy.

3) Desensitization: Individuals whose allergies are more than a little annoying -- or cause potentially dangerous side effects such as anaphylaxis -- may be wise to seek treatment with an allergist. An allergist can develop the appropriate method of treatment to help desensitize one to semen so that it is no longer an issue. An allergist will systematically expose the individual to their partner’s semen either via tiny injections of it or intravaginally. As the body is repeatedly exposed to very small doses of the allergen, it gradually becomes desensitized to it, so that eventually, one could have sex with no side effects. As the desensitization process is taking place, the allergist may require the couple to have sex a minimum of 2 or 3 times a week for a period of time, so that the woman continues to have repeated exposure to the semen while her body is becoming desensitized. Now there is a treatment most men can get behind!

Keeping the penis healthy
Luckily, most men will not encounter a semen allergy in themselves - or a partner - in their lifetime. But even without that hiccup in one’s love life, it is important for a man to take care of his intimate equipment so it stays healthy for the long run. Daily use of a penis health cream (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) can soothe irritated penis skin - whether it is caused by a semen allergy, dry skin, or anything in between. A health formula packed with vitamins and nutrients can also protect the health of the penis by fighting anti-oxidants, boosting collagen production, and improving penile circulation. Applying daily can allow a man to enjoy the effects of a healthier penis today.

Relieving Pain during Sex - Dealing with Vaginismus and How Men Can Help

Sex is supposed to be fun, and it’s supposed to feel good. But sometimes it’s not, and it doesn’t. In fact, sometimes pain during sex can be downright excruciating, making enjoyment impossible. One such condition that can make sex unbearable for a woman is known as vaginismus - it is a painful condition that is about as fun as it sounds. No man ever wants to watch his partner go through something so painful, but knowledge is power, and being informed can make all the difference should it become an issue in the future. Learn more about the condition and how it affects women who deal with it every day - as well as tips for keeping both partners sexually healthy.

What is vaginismus?
There is no way to sugar-coat it; vaginismus is a painful condition that can make all forms of penetration unpleasant at best, and excruciating at worst. The condition is caused by an involuntary contraction of the pelvic floor muscles, essentially clamping a woman’s vagina tightly shut. This spasm keeps most anything from penetrating, including tampons, fingers, gynecological instruments - and yes - a penis too. It is important to stress that this is involuntary. The woman is certainly not willing this to happen; it is a reflexive action that often needs treatment to control.

What causes it?
Just like many health conditions, there is not necessarily a clear cause and effect when it comes to vaginismus. Of course, this makes it slightly more difficult to treat, as a doctor will have to explore numerous etiologies to determine the cause for each individual. Some of the more common reasons behind vaginismus are:

1. Chronic yeast infections or chronic urinary tract infections
2. Vulvar vestibulitis - severe inflammation that is only painful during penetration
3. Personal history of sexual assault, abuse or rape
4. Psychological stressors such as depression, anxiety or stress
5. Negative feelings of shame, guilt or disgust regarding sexual behavior
6. Fear of sexual behaviors
7. Strict conservative upbringing or religious ideology regarding sex
8. Trauma that occurred during labor and delivery
9. Hormonal shifts such as menopause or excessive vaginal dryness

 
How is it treated?
Treatment for vaginismus can be particularly challenging, because there may be more than one contributing factor. For instance, a woman have both physical and psychological causes leading to the vaginismus. Whether the woman has primary vaginismus (having never experienced successful penetration) or secondary vaginismus (having had successful penetration previously) also makes a difference in the ease or difficulty of treatment. A woman’s treatment plan must be individualized to her specific history by her doctor or team of doctors; treatment may be given by an OB only or may include a therapist or psychiatrist as well. Medication, psychotherapy, physical therapy, or the use of a vaginal dilator to gradually stretch the vagina may all be used depending on the woman. It is important for a man supporting his partner through vaginismus to be kind and supportive, particularly if this occurred as a sudden shift in the joint sex life. Becoming angry with his partner, threatening to leave, trying to force sex, or causing feelings of guilt is only going to make the problem worse. Vaginismus may have a purely physical cause - such as a vaginal tear - but can very quickly turn psychological if a woman is pressured into sex or made to feel she is broken, useless, or bad for not engaging in sex.

Keeping Sex Alive
Partners who are struggling with vaginismus, whether it is a short-term or long-term problem in the relationship, need to stick together. The condition can become quite frustrating and derail intimacy in a relationship. On that note, both partners should remember that there are plenty of ways to connect sexually without penetration. Oral sex, anal sex as well as non-penetrative foreplay can all keep a sexual relationship alive in the absence of traditional sex. In the meantime, a man should keep his equipment in working order so things are ready to go when his partner’s condition is resolved. Using a daily penis health cream (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) can deliver the nutrients the penis needs to stay healthy and functioning. Essential penis nutrients can improve penile circulation, maintain the health of the tissue and improve the appearance of penis skin. Just apply daily so that when she is ready, Mr. Johnson is ready as well.

Painful Penis During Sex & What It Could Mean

Infection, nerve pain and inflammation of the penis and/or prostate can lead to intense discomfort during sex. Vitamins, minerals, antibiotics and a regular self-care routine go a long way toward improving symptoms and speeding recovery. However if problems persist, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for a medical diagnosis.

Symptoms

Pain during sexual intercourse can make the sexual act unbearable for many men. While it is normal function for the penis to become hypersensitive directly after orgasm, excessive pain and discomfort can make the penis so sore it cannot bear to be touched. However in less common cases men can experience pain in the penis during the sexual act or during an erection. Symptoms can differ greatly, depending on what is causing the pain. Sharp, shooting, burning or tingling pain should be checked out by a doctor or urologist immediately, in order to rule out infection, spinal problems or chronic degenerative illnesses.

Causes

There are many possible causes for a painful penis during sexual intercourse. If the penis has changed shape in any way or has formed bulges it may be the development of scar tissue inside the penis, a condition known as Peyronie's disease. When the foreskin is too tight and painful to retract it is known as phimosis, a problem that can either begin at birth or occur as a result of scarring of the foreskin. Inflammation and infection of the penis or prostate gland are other possibilities. Be on the lookout for warning signs, such as redness, heat, burning, itching, discharge, changes in urine color and smell, or skin problems.

When tingling, burning, shooting pains, or numbness in the penis are experienced the cause of pain during sex may stem from the nerves. According to the Mayo Clinic, the pudendal nerve, which runs from the spine through the buttocks, can cause pain in the buttocks, anus and penis when it is pinched or damaged.

Men with diabetes may also experience gradual nerve damage as part of their condition, beginning as tingling and later progressing to pain, burning, or numbness in hands, feet and genitals.

Treatment

Treatment ultimately depends on what is causing the pain. Infection and inflammation of the penis and/or prostate can be handled easily in most cases with antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medication and immune enhancers such as vitamin C and Echinacea extract.

Nerve problems are often treated with a range of therapies including anti-inflammatory medications, pain killers, and self-management strategies to use at home. If the nerves have been damaged from diabetes, the most important strategy is to manage the disease effectively through dietary changes, insulin therapy and supplements to support insulin sensitivity.

Some natural products may support nerve health and reduce pain naturally. Botanicals such as California Poppy, Chamomile, Passionflower and Skullcap may help to reduce pain signaling in the nerves. Studies show Alpha lipoic acid, Lion's Mane Mushroom and St John's Wort may help to reduce nerve inflammation and promote the regeneration of damaged nerves.

Health Crèmes

Penis health crèmes are natural products that can help to treat inflammation, pain, and nerve damage on the penis. Containing natural vitamins, antioxidants and oils that benefit tissue integrity and immune health, health crèmes can be applied to speed the recovery of skin cells and possibly calm hypersensitive tissues. Specialist formulas (most professionals recommend Man1Man Oil) contain vitamin C as a natural immune support, vitamin E to reduce scarring of tissues, alpha lipoic acid for penis nerve health and shea butter for anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties.