Insights into the Menstrual Pain Experience: Results from Quality Improvement Surveys of American Women

Author(s): Margo S Harrison

Objective:

The objective of these quality improvement surveys was to improve business practices based on consumer feedback about menstrual pain.

Methods:

All de-identified data was collected through an online survey platform called Survey Monkey and no personal health information as defined by HIPAA regulations was collected.

Results:

For the cohort of women initially surveyed (n = 103), to believe in the legitimacy of a new menstrual pain medication, they rely largely on doctors (n = 28), clinical research (n = 31), and testimonials from other women (n = 20). For a second cohort asked about success of treatment, they defined it as a reduction in pain (72%), and if the treatment failed they would be worried about side effects, wasting money, and disappointment that the treatment was not effective.

Conclusion:

Women have negative menstrual experiences, rely on doctors, research, and each other to develop trust in menstrual treatments, and define success of a menstrual treatment by its ability to reduce pain.