So what gives?
Most people know that vaginal dryness can make for uncomfortable intercourse, but it’s also the most common cause of post-sex discomfort. Long or energetic sessions cause more friction if you’re not lubed, which can manifest later as soreness (try a warm bath with unscented Epsom salts) or irritation (use a hydrocortisone cream around the vaginal opening for relief ).
Related: A Beginner’s Guide to Rough Sex
Sufficient arousal (extend that foreplay!) can prevent the pain: You’ll have more moisture down there, and your vagina also becomes more elastic as your excitement grows, so it can better accommodate a well-endowed partner or vigorous position. (And don’t be afraid to use lube, like this NaturaLove Organic Personal Lubricant from the Women’s Health Boutique.)
Check out these 14 fascinating facts about your orgasm.
But hormone changes and medications like birth control pills or antihistamines can also dry you up. In these cases, natural personal lubricants, like Restore by Good Clean Love ($20, goodcleanlove.com), can treat dryness. Also notice if your pain occurs only after using certain hygiene products (like scented cleansers), condoms, or spermicides (such as nonoxynol-9), which may cause irritation. And an ache that’s deep in your pelvis could signify a cyst, a fibroid, or endometriosis. In general, pain lasting longer than 24 hours with after-sex bleeding, unusual discharge, or odor calls for a gyno visit.
For more sex tips, check out the April 2017 issue of Women’s Health on newsstands now.