Samrose,
Is it possible the shocks seemed more painful initially due to the surprise/unexpectedness, and then (if applicable) because of anxiety/apprehension/fear? No question they can be... um...
rude, but after a few times & knowing what to expect, the fear/surprise of the unknown has lessened and they've sorta fallen into perspective (for me, anyway...

) Like Ech sez, everyone's different...
Doc