Pain during sex isn’t normal. Here’s how couples can cope

Painful sex can be isolating and distressing. It can also be an opportunity to accept yourself and find new dimensions of connection

When I was 21, I decided I wanted to be a sex therapist. Weeks later, I suddenly stopped being able to have sex. I was happy in a new relationship, but penetrative sex became painful without warning. When it first happened, I hoped it was just an off day. Then it happened again. And again.

Unfortunately, I wasn’t alone in this experience. More than a quarter of women worldwide cope with chronic pelvic pain – and that’s just the reported numbers.

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Pain during sex isn’t normal. Here’s how couples can cope

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