This UBC-developed website educates youth on when period pain is too much
Period Pain is Real Pain: New Website and Social Media Campaign Aims to Empower Youth
Researchers at the University of B.C. have launched a new website and social media campaign aimed at empowering young people to take the experience of period pain more seriously. The website, Period Pain is Real Pain, was developed with input from youth partners and provides resources on period pain, related conditions like endometriosis, and pain relief options.
One of the key features of the website is a free quiz that helps young people determine whether they should speak to a healthcare provider about their pain. UBC PhD student Zeba Khan, who studies period pain care in Canada, emphasized that period pain is a common experience, affecting more than 60% of females of reproductive age. Despite its prevalence, there is often a harmful narrative that dismisses period pain as normal and just part of being a woman. Khan stressed the importance of recognizing that period pain is valid and that young people should seek support if their pain is severe enough to impact their daily activities.
Dr. Paul Yong, an associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at UBC, highlighted the importance of addressing recurring period pain in adolescence to prevent chronic pain in the future. Endometriosis, a common underlying cause of period pain, affects about one in 10 females of reproductive age. Vancouver-based endometriosis advocate Lux Perry shared her own painful experience with the condition as a young teen and emphasized the importance of resources like Period Pain is Real Pain in helping individuals advocate for themselves and communicate effectively with healthcare providers.
Cally Wesson, president and CEO of B.C. Women’s Health Foundation, which funded the research project, praised the website for validating women’s pain experiences and combating the dismissal of symptoms by healthcare professionals. By providing accessible information and resources, the campaign hopes to empower young people to take control of their health and seek appropriate support for their period pain.
The Period Pain is Real Pain website and social media campaign serve as valuable tools for raising awareness about period pain and related conditions, empowering young people to prioritize their health and well-being. It is crucial to recognize that period pain is not just a normal part of being a woman, but a valid and potentially serious issue that deserves attention and support.
