dyspareunia /dis′pəro̅o̅″nē·ə/ , an abnormal pain during sexual intercourse due to a spasm. It may result from abnormal conditions of the genitalia, dysfunctional psychophysiological reaction to sexual union, forcible coition, or incomplete sexual arousal. Dyspareunia is also associated with hormonal changes of menopause and lactation that result in drying of the vaginal tissues and with endometriosis, which may result in painful adhesions around the vagina and ligaments, decreasing their flexibility during intercourse. Dryness is commonly relieved by the local application of water-soluble lubricants. See also vaginismus.
