The influence of gender stigma in the management of pain for women

Stigma due to gender is a pervasive issue in healthcare that undermines patient outcomes and access to high-quality care. For women, it may range from subtle language use and neglect of specific health needs to overt discrimination. In pain management, gender stigma can compromise person-centered care. Biological and psychological mechanisms, along with social determinants of health, shape pain perception and highlight groups of women at greater risks of poor care. This article, part of a series on healthcare stigmas, calls for greater awareness, education and research to develop tailored pain assessment tools and improve outcomes for women.