Understanding Women’s Pain: What a Gender Lens Adds to Qualitative Pain Research

Women are more likely to live with chronic pain. In trying to understand causes and experiences of women's pain, researchers tend to focus more on the biological (sex) rather than the social (gender). The social aspects of experience include norms and roles (like caregiving, for example). Sometimes when researchers aim to consider gender in their research, the emphasis tends to be on sex. There is a risk to not including the social aspects (i.e., gender) of chronic pain among women. This session will focus on gendered approaches to chronic pain among women in order to highlight how gendered aspects of the pain experience can help to address pain inequities. 

Learning Objectives:

1. recognize the difference between sex and gender

2. discuss how gender-based approaches to chronic pain can produce unique and socially relevant findings

3. recognize how gender-based approaches to pain and chronic pain can assist in the development of more socially just pain scholarship

A discussion between scientists, health professionals, educators, and pain advocates on a myriad of topics related to chronic pain. Offering a platform for innovative minds to bring forward inspiring ideas and discover solutions to help you in your practice. #canadianpainrounds National Pain Rounds takes place on the last Friday of every month.  National Pain Rounds and other virtual events are a discussion between scientists, health professionals, educators, and pain advocates.   This program receives funding from the Government of Canada. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent the views of Health Canada.  All opinions expressed by the presenters are solely their own and do not reflect the opinions of the Canadian Pain Society. The views, opinions, and commentary of the presenters are for information purposes only, and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of a licensed healthcare provider before making any changes to your healthcare regimen.