We’ve done several episodes about painful sex in the past, but none of them have been as personal as this one today. You get to meet my friends Bryce and Shannon, who tell their story of how painful sex has really interfered with their relationship early on in their marriage. And I love the story because it’s a story of faith.
I also really appreciate Shannon and Bryce being really vulnerable and open and sharing specifically the things that help them and also didn’t help them along their journey. I love these interviews where we’re not interviewing experts per se, but these are just ordinary couples that are really doing extraordinary things in their relationship, and I’m so grateful that they’re willing to share their story with you.
What We Cover in This Episode
My friends Bryce and Shannon married as virgins, full of excitement—and then sex turned out to be painful, not just at first but for more than two years. In this tender “sextimony,” they share honestly how the pain affected everything: Shannon began to dread sex and felt “broken,” Bryce felt unwanted, and fear and self-doubt crept in. The turning point came when they realized this was a real, treatable medical issue—not a verdict on their marriage—and leaned on their faith and outside help to find healing. If you’re struggling with painful sex, their story is a reminder that you’re not alone, you’re not broken, and healing is possible.
Key takeaways
- Painful sex is more common than people think—and it’s usually a treatable medical issue.
- Pain often leads to avoidance, which can quietly create tension and distance.
- Hurting during sex doesn’t mean you’re broken or that your marriage was a mistake.
- Talking to others helped Bryce and Shannon realize they could seek real help.
- Faith can be a source of hope and endurance through a long, hard season.
If this resonates, learn more about overcoming female sexual dysfunction and painful sex, find encouragement in how God’s design for sex includes pleasure, and keep building the emotional intimacy that carries you through hard seasons.
If you and your spouse are walking through a challenge like this, our Next Level program offers compassionate guidance and support.
