Unraveling Chronic Pain: Psychedelics & Women’s Health

Chronic pain is one of the most pervasive and debilitating health challenges worldwide, disproportionately affecting women. Conditions such as fibromyalgia, endometriosis, and migraine not only cause ongoing physical suffering but also impact mental health, social functioning, and quality of life. Despite this, treatment options remain limited, and women’s experiences of chronic pain have historically been overlooked or minimized in medical research.

In recent years, psychedelics have emerged as a potential tool in rethinking the treatment of chronic pain. With their ability to disrupt entrenched patterns of perception and modulate brain–body communication, these substances are being investigated for their capacity to reduce suffering, enhance resilience, and open new pathways for healing. Still, rigorous discussion is needed to understand how these treatments may intersect with women’s biology and health needs.

Join us for an online webinar hosted by Hystelica, “Unraveling Chronic Pain: Psychedelics & Women’s Health,” where we will explore the latest science, share diverse perspectives, and create space for thoughtful community dialogue.

Please note: The webinar will be recorded and sent out to all participants following the event. Please feel fee to register if you cannot attend live and you will have access to the playback recording.

Panel Discussion

A panel of invited experts will join Dr. Blest-Hopley to discuss:

-The unique burden of chronic pain in women

-How psychedelic research is shaping our understanding of pain pathways

-Promising therapeutic applications and ongoing challenges

-The importance of women-centered perspectives in psychedelic science

Host:

Dr. Grace Blest-Hopley is a neuroscientist with a PhD from King’s College London and the founder of Hystelica. With over a decade of experience researching cannabinoids and psychedelics across clinical, recreational, and naturalistic settings, she is dedicated to advancing female-focused research and creating reliable, accessible education on women’s health and psychedelics.

Our panelists: 

Dr. Sinziana Pop is a neuroscientist with over a decade of experience researching brain function and evolution. In recent years, her focus has shifted from curiosity-driven "blue sky" neuroscience to exploring unconventional approaches for treating chronic pain in women. Recognising that individual experiences are central to effective treatment, she is now pursuing psychedelic research, with the aim of designing clinical trials informed by women with lived experience of chronic pain.

Julia Bornemann is a PhD candidate at the Centre for Psychedelic Research at Imperial College London. With a background in neuroscience, she has been involved in several psychedelic trials at Imperial.She now focuses her research on investigating the therapeutic potential of treating Chronic Pain conditions with psychedelic substances. Special interests include embodiment, mindfulness, compassion, movement, and public involvement in research.

Event Format

Opening Presentation by Dr. Grace Blest-Hopley

Panel Discussion with invited experts

Community Discussion & Live Q&A

This event is an opportunity to learn, share, and engage with emerging research on a topic at the crossroads of women’s health, chronic pain, and psychedelic science.

⚠️ Please note: This is an educational event. No medical or clinical advice can be given during this session.