11/26/2023
As clinicians, it is imperative to understand that gender influences how our body receives, processes, and hangs on to trauma.
Male hormones do not fluctuate nearly as much during the month as females who menstruate do.
S*x hormones such as, testosterone and estrogen, serve as protective factors against trauma.
Those who menstruate have drastic fluctuations of estrogen and testosterone throughout the month, therefore, if a traumatic event occurs during times where estrogen and/or testosterone is lower (before ovulation), then negative physiological response are more likely to take hold.
Furthermore, it is important to note that males with PTSD tend to present with more positive symptoms such as anger and emotional outbursts whereas females tend to present with more negative symptoms such as emotional numbing, avoidance behaviors, and a restricted affect.
Source: Field, Thomas, A. et al. Neurocounseling: Brain-Based Clinical Approaches (2017, p.69)
