Mengenal Genito Pelvic Pain Penetration Disorder (GPPPD): Sakit Ketika Penetrasi

Understanding Genito-Pelvic Pain Penetration Disorder (GPPPD): When Sex is Painful

Health 921

Ladies, have you ever experienced severe pain during intercourse, especially when penetration begins? This kind of pain can lead to a loss of sexual desire and even avoidance of intimate activities, which can be distressing for both you and your partner. In this article, we'll delve into Genito-Pelvic Pain Penetration Disorder (GPPPD) to help you better understand this condition.

Genito-Pelvic Pain Penetration Disorder (GPPPD)

Genito-Pelvic Pain Penetration Disorder is a condition that affects the pelvic floor muscles surrounding the vagina, leading to involuntary muscle contractions or tightening. This results in excruciating pain during penetration, making it challenging and persisting for at least six months.

This disorder is an umbrella term encompassing two sexual pain disorders: dyspareunia (painful sexual intercourse) and vaginismus (a condition in which the vaginal muscles involuntarily contract, making penetration difficult or even impossible).

GPPPD can affect women of all age groups, but young adults and menopausal women more commonly experience it. Some women develop GPPPD after childbirth. This condition can cause physical pain, emotional distress, sexual frustration, and strain in romantic relationships, which may gradually diminish a woman's sexual desire. GPPPD comes in different types, including:

  1. Early-Onset: Pain occurs just as penetration is about to begin.
  2. Late-Onset: Pain starts during penetration and may persist during other physical activities.
  3. Situational: Pain varies depending on the situation, such as during tampon insertion.

Symptoms of GPPPD

To be diagnosed with Genito-Pelvic Pain Penetration Disorder, a woman must experience symptoms for at least six months. The symptoms should cause significant distress and not be related to other factors such as sexual violence or specific medications. According to DSM-5, GPPPD encompasses persistent or recurrent difficulties with one or more of the following:

  1. Difficulty penetrating the vagina during sex.
  2. Experiencing vulvovaginal or pelvic pain during vaginal intercourse or attempted penetration.
  3. Feeling fear or anxiety about pelvic pain when engaging in sex or starting vaginal penetration.
  4. Involuntary tightening of pelvic floor muscles during vaginal penetration attempts.

Symptoms of GPPPD are difficulty in penetration attempts

Causes of GPPPD

While the exact causes of GPPPD remain unknown, several factors may contribute to its development. These factors can be physical, clinical, cognitive, or psychological. Identifying the potential causes is essential for appropriate treatment. Factors that might contribute to GPPPD include:

  1. Reproductive organ health conditions: These may include endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, interstitial cystitis, uterine fibroids, vaginal muscle inflammation, injuries, or infections.

  2. Past trauma: Severe pain during childbirth or a history of sexual abuse can contribute to GPPPD.

  3. Partner's health or relationship challenges: Relationship dynamics and differences in sexual desires can affect sexual comfort.

  4. Negative beliefs about sex: Believing that sex is wrong or immoral can lead to discomfort during intercourse.

  5. Vaginal dryness and poor body image: Physical factors like vaginal dryness and negative body image can exacerbate GPPPD.

Managing GPPPD

If you're experiencing GPPPD, it's crucial to consult a gynecologist for a proper diagnosis and tailored treatment. Treatment approaches aim to address the underlying causes of pain. Here are some recommendations:

  1. Patience and gentle approach: If relationship factors contribute to your condition, be patient and gentle during sexual activities.

  2. Use of lubricants or prescribed medications: For menopausal women, using lubricants or hormone estrogen-containing medications as prescribed by your doctor can help.

  3. Medical treatment: If your condition results from a health issue like endometriosis, your doctor may recommend specific medications or surgical intervention.

  4. Sex therapy: Individual or couples' sex therapy can provide education on anatomy, sexual response cycles, relaxation techniques, and improved communication with your partner.

Sex therapy can be used as a treatment option

GPPPD may affect your sexual life, but there are treatment options available to help you achieve a healthy sex life. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for your specific situation. Remember that support and guidance are available at Newfemme, so don't hesitate to reach out.