Having intercourse may initially be a painful or uncomfortable experience because the hymen, a thin membrane that covers the opening of the vagina, can be stretched or broken in the process, if it's present at all. Some women stretch or break their hymens during activities like sports or inserting tampons or during masturbation.

Other factors may contribute to painful first intercourse as well. First-time jitters generally cause people to tense up. It helps to be relaxed because the muscles of the vagina will follow suit.

Fear is another factor. The fear of getting pregnant, the fear of the pain and the fear of getting discovered can really put a damper on things, too. Try to eliminate as many of these distractions as possible.

You are using a condom, which is great. You might want to investigate the use of contraceptive foam or spermicide as a back-up, if you would like additional protection. There is also a possibility that you may be allergic to latex condoms--and this might make sex extremely painful. If you think this might be the case, you should consult your doctor for other birth control options.

If you're worried about the pain, ask your boyfriend to go slowly and to follow your lead next time and until you are more comfortable--physically and mentally--with sex. Clear communication about the pace and the positions that feel comfortable for you will help him stay connected to you during sex. Also, make sure to chose a place and time in which you are assured of being uninterrupted.

Lubrication, which reduces friction and chafing during intercourse, is often another factor in whether a woman enjoys sex or not. How much wetness a woman experiences depends on her body's tendencies and also on the circumstances that surround sex--how much time is spent on foreplay, how much a woman is naturally aroused by her partner, whether she is nervous or relaxed, whether she is afraid, etc. Slowing things down will likely help, but it's also a good idea to keep personal lubricant on hand. It can usually be found in the "feminine products" aisle of your pharmacy or supermarket.

If you have tried these things and you still find sex painful, it could indicate that you may not be ready for sex at this point. In that case, it may be best to wait awhile before continuing.

Take care.