[Uptown Girl]

I can only measure or compare my pain from one personal occurrence to another, like a kidney stone vs. labor pain.... and large vs. small stone or easy/difficult labor circumstances could certainly make a difference in experience.

Often it is not my immediate tolerance, but extended tolerance that I rate. My body probably dumps endorphins into my system pretty quick, but cannot sustain them for long periods. I have rarely received pain meds during my ocasional 'adventures' until much time passed (none during childbirth) so that has given me a clue as to it's difficulty.

In the end, it is how well I can function during pain that is the biggest factor for me. I give in only as a last resort and that is not bravado or high tolerance, it is being a cement head.
If I can't accomplish the most basic of functions (like breathe, think or control my body) because of pain, then it's pretty bad.