From Pain to Pleasure: Understanding and Treating Painful Sex | Sexuality

In this episode of the Please Me Podcast, Eve addresses a topic many women experience but rarely talk about openly—pain during sex that dramatically effects their sexuality. Eve breaks down the difference between dyspareunia (pain during intercourse) and vaginismus (involuntary pelvic floor tightening), and explains the physical and emotional factors that can contribute to both conditions. The episode explores how stress, anxiety, trauma, hormonal changes, and vaginal dryness can all affect comfort and pleasure during intimacy. Eve also highlights the importance of arousal time, foreplay, and understanding how the body prepares for penetration. She shares practical, supportive solutions including pelvic floor therapy, lubrication, gradual desensitization techniques, and comfortable positioning, along with the role of aftercare in supporting overall sexual wellbeing. This episode is a compassionate guide for anyone experiencing pain during sex, offering education, validation, and practical steps toward reclaiming pleasure. What You’ll Learn • The difference between dyspareunia and vaginismus • Psychological causes of painful sex (stress, anxiety, trauma) • How hormones and dryness impact comfort • Why foreplay and arousal time matter • How pelvic floor therapy supports healing • Practical ways to reduce pain during intimacy • The importance of aftercare for sexual health Resources from Eve The Sexual Longevity Protocol: https://pleaseme.online/the-sexual-longevity-protocol/ 30-Day Self-Pleasure & Body Reconnection Practices (Free): https://pleaseme.online/the-30-day-self-pleasure-body-reconnection-practices/ Connect With Eve Website: https://pleaseme.online Substack: https://pleaseme.substack.com Patreon (Ad-Free + Bonus Content): https://patreon.com/PleaseMePodcast Be a Guest: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/beaguestonpleasemepodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices