Rebecca Sager, senior vice president of development for HealthyWomen, was in the hospital prep room getting ready to deliver her first child when the nurse asked her if she was a real redhead. Sager, known for her fiery mane, jokingly replied, “You’re going to find out in a minute.”
Only less than 2% of the population are natural redheads like Sager. The nurse’s question stemmed from the fact that redheads may require more pain management during labor if their hair color is natural.
Research suggests that redheads have a unique relationship with pain due to a mutation in the MC1R gene. This gene not only gives them their characteristic red hair but also affects pain sensitivity and tolerance.
Redheads may have a higher tolerance for pain in general but increased sensitivity to certain types of pain, as shown by various studies. They also respond differently to pain medication, presenting challenges in pain management.
There is limited research on whether redheads need more anesthesia, but some studies suggest they may require higher doses. It’s essential for redheads to communicate any concerns about anesthesia or pain management with their healthcare providers before procedures.
