When coitus produces pain: an exploration of female sexuality in Northwest Mexico

Objective. To determine the prevalence of dyspareunia among women aged 25-54 and its associated risk factors. Material and methods. A cross-sectional population-based study was carried out in the city of Hermosillo, Sonora and data from 1 183 sexually active women were analyzed. A multiple logistic regression was computed to analyze the association between dyspareunia and sociodemographic characteristics, medical conditions and sexual violence. Results. The 12-month prevalence of dyspareunia was estimated to be 12.3% (95% CI 10.5, 14.4). After adjustment for working conditions, dyspareunia was associated with younger ages (25-34 years), history of sexually transmitted diseases/pelvic inflammatory disease, chronic urinary tract infections, colitis and history of sexual violence. Conclusion. Increased attention to this condition by reproductive health programs and primary care services is urgently needed in Mexico.