Study on How Hormones Affect Pain Sensitivity in Cisgender and Transgender Adults Aged 18 to 65

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are exploring how gender identity, genetic sex, and hormone levels affect pain sensitivity. The study includes groups of cisgender men and women, transgender men and women with and without hormone treatments, aiming to understand how these factors influence pain perception, psychological aspects, and immune system differences. They also examine social and psychological influences on pain, such as stress, depression, and social support. Participants will undergo quantitative sensory testing to measure sensitivity to cold, pressure, and heat using standardized methods in a laboratory session lasting about one hour. Blood samples will be taken to analyze hormone levels, stress markers, immune cell populations, and cytokine release. Questionnaires will assess pain state, quality of life, body image, depression, social support, and experiences of stigma. The study involves a single visit where participants will have blood drawn, complete questionnaires, and undergo body measurements including weight, height, and blood pressure. Pain testing includes various methods like pressure application, thermal testing, cold water immersion, and combined pressure and cold stimuli. Researchers will measure multiple outcomes related to pain thresholds, psychological factors, hormone and immune function. Participation lasts only for this single visit, with results focused on baseline measures.

State of Hormones Impact Nociceptive Expression