It was written by Susanna Hoffs of the Bangles along with Billy Steinberg, and Tom Kelly and recorded for the band's second studio album, Feels So Good (2002).

Production on "Love Doesn't Have to Hurt" was helmed by Bill Padley and Jem Godfrey, with Martin Harrington and Ash Howes credited as additional producers.

Initially recorded by Hoffs, it was later given to Atomic Kitten whose rendition of the Bangles' 1988 song "Eternal Flame" had been a number-one success the year before.

Atomic Kitten reteamed with frequent collaborator Phil Griffin to film a music video for "Love Doesn't Have to Hurt" which depicts them in different rooms in a futuristic house, intercut by group performances.

"Love Doesn't Have to Hurt" was co-written by Susanna Hoffs of American pop rock band the Bangles and spurred by Atomic Kitten's 2001 rendition of their 1988 song "Eternal Flame.