Canadian Startup Disrupts Conventional Methods for Managing Menstrual Pain

Lynn Doughane and Nanette Sene, both electrical and mechanical engineers who met during their master's studies at Polytechnique Montréal, share a common frustration: debilitating menstrual pain. Doughane, a former professional athlete, was particularly disheartened by the common misconception that menstrual pain is a result of poor health or lifestyle choices. They both recognized that menstrual pain is a prevalent issue, affecting up to 80% of women globally, and often leads to significant absenteeism and reduced quality of life.

Motivated to find an effective, drug-free solution, Doughane and Sene founded Juno Technologies in 2022. They aimed to challenge the traditional belief that medication is the primary remedy for menstrual pain. Doughane emphasized that many women lose up to three years of productivity due to this pain, with conventional medications often proving ineffective or painful to take.

The innovative solution developed by Juno Technologies is a wearable device designed to alleviate menstrual discomfort by employing microelectronic currents. This non-invasive device is worn on the abdomen and works by relaxing uterine muscles and blocking pain signals. Users can adjust the intensity and frequency of the treatment via a mobile app, making it convenient to use in everyday life.

In a recent pilot study supported by gynecologists, Juno tested its device on 30 participants who usually suffer from severe menstrual pain. The results indicated an impressive average pain reduction of 79%—from a pain level around seven out of ten to just one out of ten after one hour of use. Following the trial, 78% of participants expressed a desire to use Juno’s device instead of medication for future menstrual cycles, highlighting its potential as a favored treatment option. Personal trials among colleagues and friends also underscored the device's effectiveness, reflected in participants’ reluctance to return it after trial usage.

Juno Technologies aims to specifically support women facing severe menstrual pain, including those with conditions like endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and fibroids. With plans to begin a clinical trial at a major Quebec hospital, the founders are committed to contributing to research in a medical area they feel is often overlooked and underfunded.

Further bolstering their journey, Doughane and Sene were participants in the Communitech Fierce Founders Uplift program aimed at supporting women and non-binary entrepreneurs from equity-deserving groups. They received mentorship, a financial boost, and expert advice on market strategies, which Doughane described as one of the most personalized and effective experiences they had encountered.

A critical aspect of their learning was understanding that having an exceptional product is not enough; effective communication and a solid go-to-market strategy are essential for success. With the guidance of a skilled growth coach specializing in medical device sales, they feel well-equipped for the forthcoming challenges.

As Juno Technologies prepares for its market debut, its founders are unwavering in their commitment to enhancing women’s health and wellbeing through innovative technology. They aim to empower women by providing a viable alternative for managing menstrual pain, ensuring that no one feels alone in their experiences.