2026-02-23 14:00:46

Chronic pain lasts longer in women than in men.

Hormone-regulated cells help to ease pain, but researchers at Michigan State University in the US have discovered that monocytes – a group of white blood cells – which release a molecule to switch off pain, are more active in men, because of higher levels of testosterone.

In a study – published in the paper, Science Immunology – females endured longer-lasting pain and a delayed recovery because monocytes in their bodies were less active.

Professor Geoffroy Laumet, study author, said: “The difference in pain between men and women has a biological basis.

“It’s not in your head, and you’re not soft. It’s your immune system.”

The findings could indicate that immune cells can be manipulated into producing more signals to ease pain.

And Professor Laumet hopes his research can help millions of people experience relief with non-opioid treatments.

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