Menstrual pain, a very real and often excruciating experience for many individuals, remains largely misunderstood and underestimated by those who do not experience it. However, a breakthrough in understanding and empathy has emerged in the form of period pain simulators. Period pain relief company Somedays has developed a product that sends small electrical impulses to the abdominal muscles, mimicking the muscle contractions induced by prostaglandins during menstruation.
USA Today reported that videos of people who do not menstruate trying out these simulators have gone viral on platforms like TikTok. These videos shed light on the intense pain experienced during menstruation, with some individuals wincing and grimacing as the pain intensifies. The simulator has enabled non-menstruating individuals to gain a glimpse into the reality of menstrual pain, fostering empathy and understanding for those who undergo this monthly struggle.
A viral video featuring a Somedays staffer with endometriosis demonstrating the simulator to a policeman gained significant attention, amassing 8.4 million likes. The officer’s experience of the pain scale, reaching a “six,” elicited strong reactions from commenters who emphasized that the simulator only represents one aspect of menstrual discomfort. Menstrual woes extend beyond cramps, including bathroom issues, nausea, dizziness, exhaustion, and mood swings. Despite these challenges, menstruating individuals continue to carry on with their daily lives, often enduring hours or even days of intense pain.
The period pain simulator has emerged as a tool to foster empathy and compassion, exposing the disparities in how society treats men and women. Melissa Berton, executive director of The Pad Project, emphasizes that society still has blind spots regarding how it values menstruation as a vital sign, just like body temperature, pulse rate, respiration rate, and blood pressure. With 80% of menstruating people experiencing menstrual pain, it should not be ignored or undermined.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has repeatedly emphasized the importance of considering menstruation as a vital sign. However, the topic is often dismissed or overlooked, leading to a lack of understanding and empathy from men who may be ignorant of the extent of menstrual pain. Period poverty further exacerbates the challenges faced by menstruating individuals. Approximately one-quarter of menstruating women and girls worldwide, equivalent to 500 million people, lack access to menstrual hygiene equipment and education.
This further highlights the need for increased awareness and support to address the inequalities surrounding menstruation. The introduction of period pain simulators has sparked discussions about the need for stronger advocacy and action to tackle menstrual health issues. Many believe that if more men could experience the pain and discomfort associated with menstruation, they would become more passionate advocates for addressing these problems.
Brittany Hugoboom, entrepreneur and founder of cycle syncing app 28, emphasizes that menstrual pain, along with female pain in general, is often downplayed and misunderstood by men. She believes that the pain simulator can serve as an effective way for men to gain insight into the challenges that menstruating individuals face on a monthly basis, enduring pain for days at a time.
Although the idea of men experiencing menstrual pain through a simulator may be beneficial in promoting understanding and empathy, it is essential to recognize that the goal should not be to inflict pain on others. Instead, the focus should be on fostering a society where menstrual pain is acknowledged, supported, and addressed. Greater awareness and education can lead to a more compassionate approach to menstrual health, ensuring that menstruating individuals receive the care and understanding they deserve.
In conclusion, period pain simulators have provided a unique and eye-opening experience for those who do not menstruate, allowing them to glimpse the intensity of menstrual pain. The viral videos and discussions surrounding these simulators have shed light on the challenges faced by menstruating individuals, emphasizing the need for increased awareness, understanding, and support. By acknowledging and addressing menstrual pain, society can take significant steps toward achieving equality and improving menstrual health for all individuals.
