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Navigate: FAQ Home Page > Sexual Pleasure/Pain > Q&A
Posted on: 11/17/2006
Question
I recently started having sex with my boyfriend of a month. I have been active before but with him I have extreme swelling and discomfort during and after sex that doesn't go away for over 24 hrs. Its extremely painful and I find it hard to enjoy myself no matter how cautious he is. What could be causing this? Is there anything I can do to prevent it?
Answer
It may be possible that you are not lubricated enough, and the swelling and discomfort is from friction. It may help to use a water-based lubricant, such as KY or Astroglide, and also to take things a little more slowly. If you are having pain, consider that your body's signal to you that maybe you should stop. If you are using a condom that has spermicide on it, it is also possible that you are sensitive to the spermicide. You may wish to switch to a regular condom and use additional lubricant and see if this solves the problem. While you have swelling and pain, you should abstain from intercourse until it resolves. If none of these suggestions help, you should see your doctor.