Research summary
Genitopelvic pain is a persistent condition that affects one in five people. It causes extreme pain or ongoing discomfort, usually while trying to have sex, and can negatively affect a person’s sexuality, mental health and quality of life.
Dr. Caroline Pukall, Canada Research Chair in Sexual Health, has been leading research in this area for more than 20 years. Now, she is focusing on genitopelvic pain in sexually and gender-diverse populations. By conducting an inclusive, online, longitudinal survey to better understand pain and sexuality experiences, she and her research team are significantly expanding the narrow lens inherent in the field. They are also developing an effective pain management program that promotes diversity and investigating the sensory and vascular correlates of pain.