Millions of women in France suffer from intimate and sexual pain, a condition described as an invisible pain
that often goes unreported, according to an investigation by the Ifop Group and health reports.
The Impact of Silent Intimate Pain
An inquiry by the Ifop Group has highlighted the significant impact that sexual pain has on the lives of French women. This suffering is often internalized, with reports indicating that millions of women continue to keep their intimate pain a secret, contributing to the “invisible” nature of the condition.
Rising Trends in Chronic Pain
While intimate pain remains a specifically silenced struggle, there is a broader increase in general chronic pain across the population. In Clermont-Ferrand, the Analgesia Foundation is currently working to identify and explain the reasons why an increasing number of people are suffering from chronic pain conditions.

The Role of Pharmacists and Public Education
As patients seek relief, community pharmacists have become a primary point of contact, serving on the front lines of pain management and initial consultation. This accessibility is critical for those who may be hesitant to seek immediate clinical intervention for their symptoms.
To further address the complexities of long-term suffering, public health initiatives are expanding. A health conference specifically focused on chronic pain is scheduled to take place in 2026 in Bonneuil-sur-Marne to provide further education and guidance on the subject.