While I wouldn't use the word "normal" to describe persistent soreness after sex, there are some pretty common, easy-to-remedy reasons why soreness might linger. Allergic reactions to certain personal hygiene products, lubricants with spermicides or even the latex used in condoms may account for the soreness. It may also be caused by excess friction during intercourse or other kinds of penetration. If you are not using lubricant (sometimes called "personal lubricant" or simply "lube") during sex, you may want to try it. Lubes are designed to prevent chafing during sex. They also prevent small tears in the vagina because they help the vagina expand more comfortably during sex. You can find lube in the drug store in the "female products" or condom sections. The soreness might also be the result of rough sex, which could cause bruising. If you think this is the case, don't be afraid to tell your partner if he or she is hurting you during sex.

According to Dr. Karen Rosewater, there are also several medical conditions that could be responsible for your soreness. Dyspareunia is a condition that causes pain during intercourse. That's probably not the issue, since you did not mention that the sex itself is painful. But she says there are certain kinds of vaginal infections and sexually transmitted diseases that might make sex and its aftermath uncomfortable or even painful.

As you can see, there are many possibilities. If you try using a lubricant and avoiding too-rough sex, and the still problem persists, I would recommend getting the problem checked out by a gynecologist.