New findings from iroha reveal that nearly half of UK women have experienced pain with penetrative sex
A recent survey conducted by iroha, the sister brand of the leading Japanese adult pleasure brand TENGA, has revealed that nearly half (46%) of women from the UK have experienced pain during penetration. The survey, conducted by OnePoll, also found that almost half (63%) kept the issue to themselves and only 28% sought a solution to the problem
For some, the pain is temporary while for others, it can be long-term
While there are many reasons those with vulvas might feel pain during sex, from vaginismus, performance anxiety, to vaginal dryness, the survey revealed that 23% of UK women have frequently experienced pain during penetrative sex while over half (61%) experienced pain now and again. For some women, this pain is only a temporary problem, while for others, it can be long-term.
Half of UK women feel anxious about sex
Whether it’s feeling insecure about sexual performance, what they look like to their partners or a past traumatic experience, sexual anxiety is multi-layered and complex. Indeed, 50% of UK women felt anxious regarding sex due to a lack of self-confidence. 65% of women from the UK were anxious due to inexperience or not having had sex in a while and 15% of UK women’s sexual anxiety stemmed from a past traumatic experience. On top of that, 11% of UK women felt anxious about sex due to concerns on penis size.
Rika Adachi, Global Marketing Manager at iroha, says, “Anxiety around sex is a very common problem and can show up in a number of different ways, such as a difficulty to get aroused or feel interested in sex. What is however clear is that there are many reasons why someone might struggle with sexual anxiety, which can even include the stress of modern living or the expectation that you must be having mind-blowing sex all the time. The main point to consider is the importance of communication. Communication can not only make you more comfortable, but it can also help you identify the root of your sexual anxiety and help you work toward a more fulfilling sex life.”
63% of UK women suffer in silence
For many who experience pain during penetrative sex, there can also be feelings of stress and shame which can lead to feeling isolated. Indeed, of those who had experienced pain with penetrative sex, nearly two thirds (63%) of UK women have not talked to someone. However, of those who did try to seek a solution to painful penetrative sex, over three quarters (78%) said that the treatment worked.
Intimidated by size and shape
Sex toys and masturbation are a great way to help feel less stressed, and even prevent anxiety, but the plethora of options can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to insertable pleasure items. In fact, 22% of UK women felt concerned or overwhelmed about the idea of using a sex toy. 23% of UK women who have used sex toys before felt intimidated by the size of sex toys on the market.
The iroha koharu is the Japanese pleasure brand’s first slim and compact self-pleasure product that is lowering the hurdle for those who might be new or curious about insertable pleasure. With its non-threatening design, it will appeal to those who might feel anxious about using an insertable pleasure toy as well as those who would like to feel more comfortable with penetration and who have a desire to explore self-pleasure.
Rika Adachi says, “This survey sheds light on the significant number of women who have experienced pain with penetrative sex. However, what is more alarming is the number of women who are suffering in silence. By opening up the conversation, we hope more women will feel comfortable speaking with either a medical professional or a close friend, to know that they are not alone, and that there are options available to them.”
