FIBROMYALGIA: HORMONAL AND SOCIAL ASPECTS

Abstract

Fibromyalgia is a chronic syndrome characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, persistent fatigue, and cognitive and emotional disturbances, predominantly affecting women of working age. This chapter aims to analyze the main hormonal and social aspects associated with fibromyalgia, highlighting their influence on symptom onset, severity, and management. The methodology consisted of a narrative literature review based on national and international studies published in recognized scientific databases, addressing hormonal alterations—such as dysfunctions of the hypothalamicpituitary-adrenal axis, estrogen, cortisol, and serotonin—and social determinants of health, including gender, stigma, socioeconomic conditions, and social support. The results indicate that hormonal imbalances contribute to pain amplification and to mood and sleep disturbances, while social factors directly affect access to diagnosis, treatment adherence, and quality of life. It is concluded that fibromyalgia should be understood from a biopsychosocial perspective, emphasizing the importance of integrating clinical, hormonal, and social approaches to ensure more effective and humanized care.