Asking for a friend: Having sex is getting more and more painful and I'm too embarrassed to go to my GP, who is a man. What can I do?

Sexual pain can create significant emotional distress, leading individuals to avoid intimacy altogether. This often instills fear of rejection in partners, even if they are supportive.

The journey to addressing such issues is complex and personal. It often requires a combination of open communication between partners, professional guidance, and a commitment to understanding one’s own body and feelings.

Embarrassment and shame can exacerbate the feelings of brokenness, making those affected hesitant to seek help or share their experiences with loved ones.

Acknowledging the problem is the first step, and seeking professional help can provide couples with the tools they need to explore intimacy without pain.

Read at Independent