Many causes of pelvic pain cannot be prevented. However, there are a few steps people can take to reduce their risk. These include:

• Adequate foreplay and stimulation. This ensures proper lubrication of the vagina before penetration.
  
  
• Using water-soluble lubricant. The use of commercial lubricants can prevent pain related to vaginal dryness. Lubricants that are not water-soluble, however, should be avoided because they can cause vaginal irritation.
  
  
• Practicing monogamy with an uninfected parter. Having multiple sexual partners increases the risk of infection and can cause sexual pain.
  
  
• Consistently and correctly using a condom during sexual intercourse. This lowers a patient’s risk of developing sexual pain because it prevents the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases.
  
  
• Not having an episiotomy unless medically necessary. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists issued new guidelines in 2006 against the routine use of incisions to widen the vaginal opening during childbirth. Though episiotomies are sometimes needed, risks include lacerations, incontinence and sexual pain.
  
  
• Avoiding intercourse immediately following childbirth. Women are advised to wait at least six weeks after childbirth before resuming intercourse.
  
  
• Healthy diet and weight. Research has linked obesity to increased risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia, prostate cancer, endometrial cancer and other cancers. Research has linked a diet rich in plant foods and low in animal fats to reduced risk of prostate cancer, ovarian cancer and other cancers.

Women are advised to see a gynecologist regularly and have routine tests such as the Pap smear according to the recommended schedule. Though many men do not have a urologist or andrologist (physician specializing in men’s health), they may benefit from regular visits to one. Men are advised to try to have their prostate exam performed by the same physician each time so it is easier to note changes.