Exploring Perception, Reporting, and Decision-Making in Orofacial Pain Management: A Gender Perspective

Research project The prevalence of orofacial pain is higher in women, but the reasons why are unknown. The higher prevalence could be related to gender differences in how pain is perceived, pain reporting during clinical examinations, or gender bias in the interaction with healthcare professionals. Gender bias in pain management has been observed within healthcare. However, there is limited knowledge regarding gender disparities in dentistry.

The reasons behind gender differences in pain reportings are poorly understood, but believed to go beyond merely biological differences. Instead, pain is understood in a biopsychosocial perspective. Thus, suggesting that the observed gender differences are related to other factors affecting pain reporting. It is therefore reasonable to assume that pain reporting rather relies in how the experience of pain is processed within an individual and in the interaction with healthcare. Highlighting the importance of studying pain perception, reporting and decision-making in relation to gender.