The role of female gonadal hormones in behavioral sex differences in persistent and chronic pain: clinical versus preclinical studies

Brain Res Bull. 2005 Aug 15;66(3):179-88. doi: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2005.05.009.

Abstract

Clinical and preclinical studies have found sex-specific differences in the discrimination and perception of nociceptive stimuli. This article reviews the current literature concerning the biological basis of sex differences in the behavioral response to persistent inflammatory and chronic pain stimuli. The emerging picture from both clinical and preclinical studies suggests that the basis of these differences in nociceptive responses to such stimuli resides in the regulatory activity of gonadal hormones in the central nervous system. Published reports suggest that pain management targeted at female patients should consider hormonal factors during the female reproductive cycle.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Behavior / physiology*
  • Chronic Disease
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Drug Evaluation, Preclinical
  • Estrogens / physiology*
  • Estrous Cycle / physiology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Menstruation / physiology
  • Ovary / physiology*
  • Pain / physiopathology*
  • Pain / psychology*
  • Sex Characteristics

Substances

  • Estrogens