How to prepare for a video visit about Dyspareunia (Painful Intercourse) - Triage

Audience: pediatric

Dyspareunia means pain during sexual intercourse, which can be confusing and upsetting, especially for young people experiencing it for the first time. This guide helps pediatric patients and their caregivers prepare for a video visit with a healthcare provider to discuss symptoms safely and comfortably. A video visit allows you to talk about your concerns, describe symptoms, and get advice on next steps without leaving home. During the visit, your provider may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and any emotional or physical factors that might affect your experience. Preparing ahead by noting your symptoms and questions can make the visit more helpful. Remember, telemedicine can support early evaluation and guidance but cannot replace a full physical exam when needed. If you experience severe pain, bleeding, or other urgent symptoms, seek in-person care immediately.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe or worsening pain that limits daily activities — seek in-person medical care promptly.
• Heavy vaginal bleeding or bleeding after intercourse — contact healthcare provider or emergency services immediately.
• Fever, chills, or signs of infection such as foul-smelling discharge — seek urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial discussion of symptoms and concerns related to painful intercourse.
• Providing education on possible causes and self-care measures.
• Guidance on emotional or psychological support and stress management.
• Determining if further in-person evaluation or testing is needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing a physical pelvic examination or diagnostic tests.
• Diagnosing infections or other conditions requiring laboratory tests.
• Managing emergency symptoms such as severe pain or bleeding.
• Prescribing medications that require physical assessment before use.

What is Dyspareunia?

Dyspareunia is pain or discomfort during sexual activity. It can happen for many reasons, including physical changes, infections, emotional stress, or other health issues. It is common and treatable. Understanding your symptoms helps your healthcare provider give the best advice.

How Telemedicine Can Help

A video visit lets you discuss your symptoms privately and safely. Your provider can ask questions about your pain, medical history, and emotional health. They may suggest ways to manage symptoms or recommend further tests or in-person visits if needed.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your appointment, write down:

Make sure you have a private, quiet space for the visit and a charged device with a good internet connection.

What to Expect During the Visit

Your provider will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They may discuss emotional factors and stress that can affect pain. You might get advice on self-care, such as gentle hygiene, relaxation techniques, or avoiding irritants. If needed, they will guide you on next steps, including possible in-person exams or tests.

When to Seek Immediate Care

If you have severe pain, heavy bleeding, fever, or signs of infection, you should get urgent in-person medical care. Telemedicine is not suitable for emergencies or when a physical exam is urgently needed.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a private, quiet space for your video visit where you feel comfortable speaking openly.
• Charge your device and ensure a stable internet connection.
• Write down when your pain started, how often it occurs, and how severe it is.
• Note any other symptoms like itching, burning, discharge, or bleeding.
• Prepare questions or concerns you want to discuss with your provider.
• Have a list of current medications and any medical conditions ready to share if asked.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any self-care advice given during the visit, such as hygiene tips or relaxation techniques.
• Schedule any recommended in-person appointments or tests if advised.
• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes or new symptoms.
• Reach out to your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new red flags appear.
• Consider emotional support or counseling if emotional factors affect your symptoms.

FAQs

What causes dyspareunia in young people?

Dyspareunia can be caused by physical factors like infections, dryness, or irritation, as well as emotional factors such as stress or anxiety. Sometimes, it may be due to medical conditions affecting the pelvic area.

Can I get help for painful intercourse through a video visit?

Yes, a video visit allows you to discuss your symptoms and concerns with a healthcare provider. They can offer advice, suggest self-care, and determine if you need further in-person evaluation.

What should I do if the pain gets worse after the video visit?

If your pain worsens, or if you experience heavy bleeding, fever, or other concerning symptoms, seek in-person medical care promptly. Telemedicine is not a substitute for urgent or emergency care.

Is painful intercourse normal?

Pain during intercourse is not uncommon and can happen for many reasons. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider to understand the cause and get appropriate care.

Will I need a physical exam?

Sometimes a physical exam is needed to diagnose the cause of pain. Your provider may recommend an in-person visit if this is necessary after your video consultation.

Sources

1. Dyspareunia — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Sexual Pain Disorders — Mayo Clinic.
3. Sexual Health and Pain — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Dyspareunia in Adolescents — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only. It is not a substitute for in-person medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. If you experience severe symptoms or emergencies, please seek immediate medical attention.