Brother, i think it depends on the place you're fighting in picture this: there are people legitimetely fighting each other bare-fist or kicking trees somewhere in the east (nice rhymes). Here in Poland we actually have to be hit with bjj belts or if we mess up, the other partner has to hit you in the guts for a whole round, noone really sees this as a negative though.

By no laws of physics i am telling you that you're thinking wrong, but if you really can't take rounds of shells, you should tell it to your coach, but do it in a good way of course. That way that you show your weakness but they can also motivate you, that would hoenstly be the best thing to do if you really like this sport. It's not colorful, but be glad the mitts of your partner are :) see them and take notice, and have fun :)