Growing Pains

Abstract

This paper is based on a research project Jessica submitted during a class to shed light on healthcare barriers for those struggling with chronic menstrual pain. In the midst of her own chronic pain journey, Jessica allows others to experience simulated menstrual pain using a TENS machine followed by a series of questions to understand the unspoken negative bias within the healthcare field. The lack of understanding and diagnoses in regard to chronic menstrual pain, specifically endometriosis, can result in heightened stigma and decreased resource access for menstruators. By creating an opportunity to engage others in questioning their inherent biases, there is room to unlearn the stigma placed upon bodies with a disability.