In research published in Brain and Behavior , investigators found increased rates of menstrual irregularities in women living in areas affected by the 2023 earthquake in Turkey.
In the study, 309 women of reproductive age living in regions declared as disaster areas completed online forms 9 months after the earthquake. Responses revealed an increase of menstrual irregularities from 14.3% before the earthquake to 44.8% after the earthquake. Risk factors for menstrual irregularities included post-traumatic stress symptoms, chronic diseases, and smoking.
The findings reveal that reproductive health can be significantly affected in the aftermath of natural disasters, and they highlight the importance of addressing mental health in post-disaster interventions to mitigate these effects.
“Traumatic events like earthquakes can disrupt not only physical but also hormonal and psychological balances, which can directly affect women's reproductive health,” said corresponding author Sibel Kiyak, RN, PhD, of Necmettin Erbakan University.
URL upon publication: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/brb3.7003
Additional Information
NOTE: The information contained in this release is protected by copyright. Please include journal attribution in all coverage. For more information or to obtain a PDF of any study, please contact: Sara Henning-Stout, newsroom@wiley.com .
About the Journal
Brain and Behavior is an open access journal that publishes research relating to every area of neurology, neuroscience, psychology and psychiatry. We publish interdisciplinary research reports - all enhancing the understanding of the brain and behavior. Brain and Behavior is part of Wiley’s Forward Series which are inclusive open access journals increasing discoverability.
About Wiley
Wiley is a knowledge company and a global leader in research, publishing, and knowledge solutions. Dedicated to the creation and application of knowledge, Wiley serves the world’s researchers, learners, innovators, and leaders, helping them achieve their goals and solve the world's most important challenges. For more than two centuries, Wiley has been delivering on its timeless mission to unlock human potential. Visit us at Wiley.com . Follow us on Facebook , X , LinkedIn and Instagram .
Brain and Behavior
The Relationship Between Menstrual Cycle Pattern and Post-traumatic Stress in Women Following the 2023 Earthquake in Turkey
25-Sep-2024