For people with chronic gynecological pain conditions, pain can be constant, making everyday activities like sitting, riding a bicycle and even wearing underwear extremely uncomfortable. For many of these people – most of whom identify as women – sexual intercourse and routine pelvic exams are unbearable.

Endometriosis^[1] and vulvodynia^[2], or chronic genital pain, are common gynecological conditions that can cause severe pain....

For many people, grit – the perseverance and passion for long-term goals^[1] – is a virtue. It is also a key ingredient in overcoming challenges, achieving success and maintaining resilience.

Studies have linked grit with success in goal attainment^[2], improved psychological well-being^[3] and increased life satisfaction^[4].

But despite conventional narratives equating this type of psychological persistence with well-being, brain...