Gender differences in the responses to noxious stimuli

A schematic model of several systems involved in the transmission and modulation of nociceptive information is presented, which may contribute to gender-associated differences in pain sensitivity.

Abstract

Many clinical pain conditions, including migraine, fibromyalgia, and temporomandibular disorders, occur more frequently among females than males. Greater pain sensitivity among females has been considered as one possible explanation for these differences. Despite considerable clinical and experimental research on the topic, no consensus has emerged on the existence or nature of gender differences in response to noxious stimuli. In this Focus article the authors take the position that females exhibit greater sensitivity to noxious stimuli than males. In support of this position, they review the experimental literature on gender and pain responses. Then, they present and discuss a schematic model of several systems involved in the transmission and modulation of nociceptive information, which may contribute to gender-associated differences in pain sensitivity. Finally, the authors highlight several issues to be addressed by future research in this area.