“Women’s Pain Ignored: New Findings Expose Bias”
“New Findings Reveal Gender Bias in Pain Treatment: How Women Can Advocate for Their Health and Be Heard”
The initial inquiry findings show a stark gender bias: men with similar levels of pain are often treated earlier and with stronger medications, while women are sometimes offered minimal pain relief, such as paracetamol, for severe symptoms. These disparities reveal deep-rooted biases within parts of the medical profession, which the initial inquiry findings aim to address. The report makes it clear that these dismissals are part of a broader issue, where structural biases and outdated perspectives affect women’s access to proper treatment. It also points to gaps in education and research that limit some practitioners’ understanding of women’s unique health needs. For example, a “wait and see” approach is often applied to women in pain, with reports of women receiving mild pain relief for conditions that would prompt immediate and substantial treatment if they affected men. The final report and recommendations of the inquiry will be published in early 2025.
If you’re experiencing pain and feel dismissed by a medical professional, know that you’re not alone. Many women, including myself and others I know, have had to fight to have their pain taken seriously. Here are some strategies that I and others have tried with some success to advocate effectively for our health and ensure we’re taken seriously:
1. Be Specific About Your Pain: Describe your pain clearly, including its intensity, frequency, and how it impacts your daily life. This can help convey the seriousness of your symptoms and show that your pain isn’t something you can “just live with.”
2. Bring Documentation: If possible, bring past medical records, test results, or any written history of your symptoms. A documented record not only gives credibility to your concerns but also demonstrates the persistence of your symptoms.
3. Challenge Dismissive Language: If your pain is attributed to “stress” or “anxiety” without a thorough investigation, don’t be afraid to ask, “If I were a man presenting with this level of pain, how would you approach it?” Sometimes direct questions like this help highlight unconscious biases and encourage a more thorough response.
4. Seek a Second Opinion: Not all doctors have the same approach or expertise, and sometimes a fresh perspective can make a difference. Don’t hesitate to consult another healthcare professional if you feel your concerns are not being addressed.
5. Bring an Advocate: Having a trusted person with you can lend support and help reinforce your statements. They can also provide an additional perspective if your concerns are not being taken seriously.
6. Document the Appointment: Write down key points from your visit, including what was discussed and any advice given. This record can help if you need to follow up or if you decide to seek a second opinion.
7. Be Persistent: If your pain is ongoing, don’t let initial dismissals deter you from seeking answers. Keep advocating for yourself until you get the care and attention you deserve.
If you feel dismissed or ignored, don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself and push back. You deserve to be heard and treated with respect. By standing up for your health, you’re not only seeking the care you need but also helping pave the way for fairer treatment for all women.