Title: “In our community, we normalize pain”: discussions around menstruation and uterine
fibroids with Black women and Latinas
Version: 4 Date: 12 Jul 2023
Reviewer:  Joseph Acchiardo
Reviewer's report:
Title: Review of Manuscript: "In our community, we normalize pain": Discussions around
menstruation and uterine fibroids with Black women and Latinas
General Comments:
The manuscript presents an important study focusing on discussions around menstruation and
uterine fibroids among Black women and Latinas. The authors shed light on the normalization of
pain within these communities, providing valuable insights into the experiences and perspectives
of these marginalized groups. The topic is relevant and addresses a significant gap in the existing
literature. Overall, the manuscript offers a comprehensive analysis, but there are a few areas that
require attention and clarification before it can be considered for publication.
Specific Comments:
1. Introduction and Background:
The introduction provides a clear and concise overview of the research topic, highlighting the
significance of studying discussions around menstruation and uterine fibroids in Black women
and Latinas. However, it would benefit from a more detailed explanation of the rationale behind
the normalization of pain and its potential consequences for these communities. Additionally,
it would be helpful to provide a brief overview of existing literature and any previous research
in this area.
2. Methodology:
The manuscript briefly mentions the use of qualitative methods, including focus group
discussions and individual interviews. However, the authors should elaborate on the recruitment
process, sample size, and demographic characteristics of the participants. Providing this
information will enhance the study's transparency and allow readers to better understand the
representativeness of the findings.
3. Results and Discussion:
The presentation of the results and subsequent discussion is one of the manuscript's strengths.
The authors effectively present the key themes that emerged from the data analysis and provide
relevant supporting quotes. However, further elaboration and analysis of these themes are needed
to draw more robust conclusions. Additionally, the manuscript could benefit from a comparison
of the findings with existing literature to identify potential similarities or discrepancies.
4. Implications and Recommendations:
The manuscript briefly touches on the implications of the study findings but could further
elaborate on the broader significance of the research. Specifically, discuss the potential
implications for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations in addressing
the normalization of pain in Black women and Latinas. Additionally, it would be valuable to
include recommendations for future research directions and interventions aimed at promoting
better health outcomes in these communities.
5. Conclusion:
The conclusion effectively summarizes the study's main findings. However, it could be
strengthened by reiterating the manuscript's main contributions and emphasizing the importance
of addressing the normalization of pain in Black women and Latinas. A brief mention of the
limitations of the study, such as potential biases or generalizability, would also be beneficial.
6. Writing Style and Clarity:
The overall writing style is clear and concise. However, there are a few instances where the
manuscript could be improved in terms of grammar, sentence structure, and organization. I
would recommend a thorough proofreading to ensure clarity and coherence throughout the
manuscript.
7. Ethical Considerations:
Given the sensitive nature of the topic, it is essential to address any ethical considerations. Please
ensure that the manuscript clearly outlines the steps taken to obtain informed consent, protect
participant confidentiality, and address potential power imbalances within the research process.
Overall, the manuscript "In our community, we normalize pain" presents an important and timely
study focusing on discussions around menstruation and uterine fibroids among Black women
and Latinas. With some revisions and clarifications, this manuscript has the potential to make
a valuable contribution to the field. I recommend considering these suggestions and addressing
the mentioned areas before accepting it for publication.