Even when doctors do address women’s pain, they tend to offer the bare minimum of relief.
First, research into gender and pain shows that women and men perceive pain differently.
Researchers hope for a future in which pain remedies will become gender-specific.
Keep a journal of your medication and dosage history, noting what works for you and what doesn’t.
Being specific with your language helps.
Medical experts toldNPRthat using the traditional 0-to-10 pain scale doesn’t adequately tell a doctor what you’re suffering.
Describe what you’re feeling and how it’s affecting you on a daily basis.
Is the pain stabbing, throbbing, or burning?
Is it located in one spot or radiating to other areas?
How does it compare to other pains you’ve had?
Is the pain interfering with your work, social life, or other activities?
If your doctor is male, you might think about finding a female M.D.
Whatever you do, don’t suffer in silence.
