# Pain during sex: causes and when to see a doctor

_Pain during sex: what it can be linked to, how urgent it is and what to do next. Kenya guidance from My Wellness Health._

Canonical: https://guides.mywellnesshealth.co.ke/symptoms/pain-during-sex

Author: My Wellness Health, Editorial team · Reviewed by: the My Wellness Health clinical team on 7 Oct 2026

Last updated: 7 Oct 2026 · Published by My Wellness Health — Preventive Healthcare & Care Navigation

> Pain during sex can be linked to infections, dryness, STIs, or conditions of the cervix or pelvis. See a clinician if it is new or persists, or comes with bleeding.

**Pain during sex: what to do**

| How urgent | What a clinician will check | How we help | Fee |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| See a clinician if it is new or persists, or comes with bleeding. | A clinical exam and STI testing. | Confidential sexual and urinary health check | Confidential sexual and urinary health check, KES 500 |

## Pain during sex: common questions

**Q: What can cause pain during sex?**

A: Pain during sex can be linked to infections, dryness, STIs, or conditions of the cervix or pelvis.

**Q: When should I see a doctor?**

A: See a clinician if it is new or persists, or comes with bleeding.

**Q: What will the doctor check?**

A: A clinical exam and STI testing.

**Q: Is pain during sex serious?**

A: Usually not, but it is worth getting checked so a clinician can find the cause. Only an examination and tests can tell.

**Q: How can My Wellness Health help?**

A: My Wellness Health's confidential sexual and urinary health check (Confidential sexual and urinary health check, KES 500) looks at your symptoms, history and lifestyle and gives you a personalised risk report with clear next steps. A care navigator calls you back within 2 hours to help you book any screening you need at a facility that suits your budget and location. Assessment fees do not include tests or consultations at the facility.

This page is health information to help you understand risks and next steps. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a consultation with a qualified clinician. My Wellness Health is not a diagnostic service: we help you understand your risk and connect you with the right screening and care. In an emergency, go to the nearest hospital or call 999 or 112. If you are thinking of harming yourself, call Befrienders Kenya on +254 722 178 177 or the Kenya Red Cross toll-free line 1199.

## Sources

- [My Wellness Health](https://www.mywellnesshealth.co.ke/)
- [NHS, Chlamydia](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/chlamydia/)
- [NASCOP, Kenya HIV Testing Services Operational Manual (2022)](https://www.prepwatch.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Kenya-HTS-Manual.pdf)

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