Chronic gynecological pain conditions, such as endometriosis and vulvodynia, affect millions of women in the US. These conditions can cause severe pain that affects everyday activities like sitting, riding a bicycle, and even wearing underwear. However, many women face skepticism and gaslighting in healthcare settings when they seek care for this type of pain.
According to research, 45% of patients with vulvovaginal pain have been told to “just relax more” by doctors, while 55% have considered giving up on seeking care due to being made to feel like their pain is not real. These experiences are not unique to one study, but rather echo findings from other research.
Medical gaslighting, a phenomenon where patients’ health concerns are downplayed or dismissed, is rooted in centuries of gender bias in medicine. Women’s reproductive health issues have long been misunderstood, and genital and pelvic pain has been attributed to psychological causes instead of biological ones.
The consequences of medical gaslighting can be severe. Patients may become isolated, doubt their own perceptions of pain, and even experience anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress symptoms. The lack of research on chronic gynecological pain conditions is also a contributing factor, with funding for women’s health initiatives declining over the past decade.
However, there are practical steps that patients can take to counteract the effects of medical gaslighting. Educating themselves about chronic gynecological pain conditions and seeking support from patient advocacy groups like The Endometriosis Association and the National Vulvodynia Association can help patients navigate the healthcare system more effectively.
By addressing these issues, we can work towards a better understanding and treatment of chronic gynecological pain conditions, ultimately improving the lives of millions of women affected by these conditions.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/05/26/health/women-chronic-pain-endometriosis-partner-wellness