What should I do if I experience pain "down there" during intercourse after becoming pregnant?

Generally, experiencing pain in the lower body after sexual intercourse during pregnancy may be caused by reasons such as vaginal tissue congestion, uterine enlargement and compression, vaginal inflammation, vulvovaginal candidiasis, or cervicitis. Patients can choose general treatment or medication therapy according to their specific situations. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Vaginal Tissue Congestion

During pregnancy, hormonal changes, particularly increased secretion of estrogen and progesterone, can cause dilation of blood vessels in the vaginal mucosa and tissue congestion. Friction and stimulation during sexual intercourse may then lead to pain. It is recommended to perform intercourse gently, avoiding overly vigorous movements to reduce irritation to vaginal tissues. Maintaining external genital hygiene before and after intercourse and keeping the area dry and clean is also important. If the pain is significant, intercourse should be temporarily avoided until the body adapts to the hormonal changes, after which decisions can be made based on individual conditions.

2. Uterine Enlargement and Compression

As the gestational age increases, the enlarging uterus may compress surrounding tissues and organs, including the vagina and pelvic floor tissues. Improper positions during intercourse or increased pressure may cause pain in the lower body. Choosing appropriate sexual positions to avoid compressing the abdomen and uterus and reducing pressure on the pelvic floor tissues is recommended. The frequency of intercourse should also be controlled to avoid excessive frequency. If pain persists or worsens, intercourse should be stopped temporarily, and adequate rest should be taken, avoiding prolonged standing or walking.

3. Vaginitis

Infection of the vagina by bacteria or other pathogens causing inflammation may lead to congestion and swelling of the vaginal mucosa. Friction during intercourse can irritate the inflamed areas, causing pain, possibly accompanied by increased vaginal discharge and an unpleasant odor. Treatment should be guided by a physician, using medications such as Nifuratel-Neomycin vaginal soft capsules, Clindamycin phosphate vaginal gel, or Metronidazole suppositories, following the prescribed course of treatment. Sexual intercourse should be avoided during treatment. Personal hygiene should be emphasized, including frequent changes of underwear, which should be scalded with boiling water and sun-dried.

4. Vulvovaginal Candidiasis

Vulvovaginal candidiasis is caused by infection with Candida species, leading to inflammatory reactions in the vaginal mucosa, manifested as vaginal itching and burning pain, which may worsen during intercourse. It may also be accompanied by white, curd-like vaginal discharge. Antifungal medications should be used under medical guidance, such as Clotrimazole vaginal tablets, Miconazole nitrate suppositories, or Nystatin vaginal suppositories. External genital hygiene should be maintained during treatment, avoiding scratching the vulva. Spicy and irritating foods should also be avoided in the diet. Sexual intercourse should be postponed until the disease is cured. Partners should also be checked for possible infection and treated simultaneously if necessary.

5. Cervicitis

Infection of the cervix by pathogens causing inflammation may result in congestion and swelling of the cervical mucosa. During intercourse, contact between the penis and the cervix may stimulate the inflamed area, causing pain, possibly accompanied by contact bleeding and increased vaginal discharge. Medications such as Cefixime capsules, Azithromycin dispersible tablets, or Doxycycline hydrochloride tablets should be used under medical guidance, strictly following the prescribed regimen. Sexual intercourse should be avoided during treatment, and regular follow-up examinations of the cervix should be conducted to monitor the recovery of inflammation. Attention should also be paid to sexual hygiene in daily life, avoiding multiple sexual partners.

In daily life, maintaining a light diet, consuming more fresh vegetables and fruits to enhance physical immunity, and wearing loose, breathable cotton underwear to reduce friction on the vulva are recommended.