Physical therapists who treat female sexual pain should understand the biological, psychological, and social aspects of that pain, according to a recent article in the journal Sexual Medicine Reviews. 

Female sexual pain can be complex. Many factors can contribute, including gynecological, muscular, gastrointestinal, and urinary issues. Sometimes, pain is caused by a combination of physical factors. 

But sexual pain can be more than that.  For example, a woman may feel anxious about sex due to her upbringing or past abuse. As a result, she may have difficulty relaxing her body.  And if she has had pain in the past, she might anticipate it again, sending her nervous system into protection mode.

Physical therapists may benefit from further training in these areas, the authors suggested. More details are available here.