Despite making up half the global population, women remain significantly underrepresented in pain research, treatment protocols, and care accessibility. That’s why the upcoming PainConnect session, “From Girls to Grandmas, Pain and Well-being Across the Lifetime: An Interdisciplinary Talk-Show Hosted by Women about Women,” promises to be one of the most engaging and impactful conversations at the AAPM Annual Meeting on Sunday, April 6th, 10:00 am – 11:00 am.

What to Expect

Led by Dr. Antje Barreveld as host, this dynamic, talk-show-style session features three powerhouse physicians—Drs. Kristen MacKenzie, Tania Di Renna, and Olga Kciuk—discussing women’s pain experiences from adolescence through older adulthood. Designed to maximize interaction (and minimize slides!), the session covers:

• Pain Across the Lifespan: From menstrual pain to pregnancy, menopause, and beyond, panelists explore common pain conditions affecting girls and women at every life stage.
• Bias in Pain Care: Addressing the stigma and disparities that women face when seeking treatment for chronic pain.
• Clinical Tools for Equity: Strategies for clinicians to provide gender-responsive, interdisciplinary care that improves outcomes for female patients.

Why It Matters

Research shows women are more likely to experience chronic pain—and more likely to be dismissed or misdiagnosed when seeking care. This session blends science, clinical insight, and cultural context to help practitioners better understand and treat women’s pain.

Expect humor, candor, and plenty of practical takeaways. Modeled after a daytime talk show, this panel invites attendees into an honest, insightful dialogue that’s as educational as it is entertaining.

Don’t miss this empowering session that’s not just for women—but for anyone committed to advancing equitable, effective pain care.

Register for the AAPM Annual Meeting today and join the conversation on changing the narrative for women in pain.