US EditionNew Study Explores Why Chronic Pain Lasts Longer In Women
The study reveals females produce less anti-inflammatory IL-10, explaining longer chronic pain; 60-70% of chronic pain sufferers are women, researchers said.
- On February 22, 2026, a study published in Science Immunology reported a biological explanation for why chronic pain lasts longer in women, challenging the 'it's all in your head' narrative, AFP said.
- Researchers examined hormone-regulated monocytes and found they produce IL-10 to slow pain resolution in female mice.
- Researchers expressed optimism that the findings could lead to new therapies, with the lead author suggesting topical testosterone as a possible short-term, localized option, citing higher monocyte activity linked to sex hormones like testosterone.
- The study could reduce reliance on opioid prescriptions and change care standards, as women constitute 60 to 70 percent of chronic pain patients and sex-adapted care is urged.
- As researchers press forward, they say the science may help shift cultural beliefs about women's pain, with long-term research probing monocyte stimulation and IL-10 boosting to enhance pain resolution.
12 Articles
12 Articles
Women suffer from chronic pain more exacerbated than men due to biological differences in the immune system, according to a study released on Friday and published in Science Immunology magazine. The finding opens the door to new treatments and could reduce the use of opioid analgesics, associated with side effects and risk of addiction. The research identified a biological mechanism that explains the gap. Geoffroy Laumet, from Michigan State Uni…
New Study Explores Why Chronic Pain Lasts Longer In Women
Ever been told, “It’s all in your head,” when you’re in pain? Turns out, science is finally on your side.A new study in Science Immunology confirms what many women have long suspected. Chronic pain hits women harder than men—and there’s a biological reason.“The pain of women has been overlooked in clinical practice,” says lead author Geoffroy Laumet. “It’s not a social construct. There’s a real mechanism behind it.”Researchers focused on monocyt…
Researchers have found that testosterone favours the production of a molecule that silences pain-sensitive neurons. This leads to an understanding of why women and men are not equal on the subject.
The reasons for this discrepancy have long been attributed by the medical profession to a greater sensitivity of the female patient.
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