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Every evaluation must begin with a thorough history. Please fill this out and bring/send in a copy. You will also have a specific description of your problem history to take with you to other treatment professionals as needed. (PDF version).

  1. Develop a timeline of the dyspareunia.

• Has intercourse always been painful?
   
• Has tampon use always been painful?
   
• Did the pain start acutely or gradually?
   
• Is the pain only during intercourse or is there pain without provocation?
   
• Since the pain began, have there been episodes of completely pain free sex? 

  2. Determine the location of the pain

New clients always welcome. Please email Mary or phone 408.371.4847.

• Is the pain upon insertion?
   
• Is the pain inside the vagina?
   
• Is there pain with deep thrusting?
   
• Are there any positions that are more/less painful?
   
• Is there pain with clitoral stimulation?
   
• Is there post-coital pain?
   

  3. Elicit symptoms

• Burning, rawness, cutting, searing, aching, sharp, dull, throbbing, tearing, sandpaper, dry, itchy?
   
• Is there dysuria, hesitancy, urgency, frequency, incomplete emptying?
• Is there constipation?
   

  4. Additional important questions

• Have you used oral contraceptive pills? How long?
   
• Have you used antifungal creams? Did they burn when you used them?
   
• If you have been treated for recurrent infections, have you had positive cultures?
   
• Have you had a vulvar biopsy?
   
• Is the pain worse/same/better if you use a condom?
   
• Do you have bleeding during/after sex?
   
• Do you tear during sex?
   
• Do you have oral lesions?
   
• Do you have sensitive skin?
   
• Do you have allergies to topical medications?