Healthy intimacy includes physical wellbeing, accurate information and access to care. Persistent discomfort or worry should not be ignored because a topic feels embarrassing.
Pain deserves attention
Sexual activity should not have to be endured through significant pain. Frequent or severe pain warrants medical assessment; possible causes vary and can include physical conditions, medications and other factors. A clinician can help determine appropriate treatment rather than encouraging someone to push through discomfort.
Talk about protection and testing
Partners should discuss sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing, contraception where pregnancy is possible, and preferred protection before sexual activity. Many STIs have no symptoms. Condoms reduce the risk of several infections, but do not eliminate all risk; appropriate vaccination and testing can be important too.
Know when support helps
Seek professional advice for new or persistent pain, distressing changes in desire, sexual difficulties, symptoms of infection or ongoing relationship problems. Depending on the concern, a primary-care clinician, gynecologist, urologist, licensed therapist or qualified sex therapist may be relevant.
Takeaway: Caring for sexual health is part of caring for yourself and your partner. Getting reliable help is a sign of responsibility, not failure.
Further reading: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/when-sex-is-painful