The Overlooked Intersection: Autism, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, and Pain Perception in Women

Advocating for a More Inclusive, Evidenced-based Approach to Pain Management

Abstract

Pain is widely experienced but unequally treated, especially for women who are Autistic, have Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), or belong to BIPOC or low-income communities. Research links Autism and EDS, as both affect connective tissue, sensory processing, and pain perception, yet women with these conditions often face misdiagnosis and inadequate care. Gender biases in medicine lead to pain dismissal, with women—especially Autistic women—struggling to communicate pain in ways doctors recognize. Racial and socioeconomic disparities further exacerbate this issue, as BIPOC and low-income women are systematically undertreated. EDS complicates pain management due to altered drug metabolism, yet existing biases make accessing appropriate treatment even harder. To address these inequities, healthcare must adopt neurodiverse-informed practices and personalized pain management strategies. Without systemic change, too many will continue to suffer needlessly.