Menstruation
Articles tagged with Menstruation
Bidirectional association between premenstrual disorders and psychiatric disorders
Yōni.Fit® bladder support for stress urinary incontinence adds menstrual indication
The Yōni.Fit device is FDA-cleared for temporary management of stress urinary incontinence and also collects menstrual fluid and/or vaginal discharge. Clinical trials show a 96% clinically significant reduction in SUI bladder leaks.
Why diagnosing endometriosis often takes many years
Two new studies from Aarhus University reveal that endometriosis is often difficult to recognize in its early stages, requiring a systematic approach even when symptoms are diffuse. The studies highlight the need for improved knowledge, collaboration with specialists, and referral pathways to reduce diagnostic delays.
Women’s cycle also affects the body’s proteins
A new study from Aarhus University identified nearly 200 proteins that change during the menstrual cycle, influencing conditions like endometriosis and bleeding disorders. The study provides a comprehensive picture of biological changes over a full cycle.
Half of Native Hawaiian University of Hawaiʻi students experience period poverty, study reveals
A new study of 462 college students in the University of Hawai’i system found that half of Native Hawaiian students experience period poverty, with significant mental health and academic consequences. The findings also highlight unequal outcomes based on race and socioeconomic status.
Periods may trigger pain for many who have sickle cell disease
A nationwide study found that periods can trigger severe pain in many women and girls with sickle cell disease, leading to emergency department visits and hospitalizations. The study's authors recommend a routine menstrual history screening as part of annual sickle cell care and connecting patients with reproductive health specialists.
Testing menstrual blood for HPV could be “robust alternative” to cervical screening
A study from China finds that testing menstrual blood for human papillomavirus (HPV) can detect cervical cancer with high accuracy, comparable to clinician-collected samples. The non-invasive method allows women to collect samples at home, enhancing feasibility for large-scale implementation.
Female athlete health, well-being focus of updated report
A new consensus statement provides evidence-based guidance for screening, diagnosis, treatment, and return-to-play protocols for female athletes. The updated report includes a first-of-its-kind adolescent model of the Female Athlete Triad, addressing energy deficiency in growing adolescents.
IV iron is the cost-effective treatment for women with iron deficiency anemia and heavy menstrual bleeding
A single dose of IV iron dextran is the most cost-effective treatment option for women with heavy menstrual bleeding and iron deficiency anemia. The study found that IV iron dextran improves quality of life and reduces costs compared to oral ferrous sulfate.
NUS Medicine takes on global, publicly accessible platform to strengthen data and insights for women’s health
The Global Centre for Asian Women’s Health has partnered with NUS Medicine to host the Women’s Health Impact Tracking (WHIT) platform, which measures progress on closing the women’s health gap across a set of conditions and countries. The platform provides clear, comparative insights to support decision-making and inform policies.
Heavy menstruation common among teenage girls – questionnaire reveals risk of iron deficiency
A recent study published in PLOS One reveals that over half of teenage girls experience heavy bleeding and 40% have iron deficiency. A simple questionnaire, known as the SAMANTA questionnaire, has been found to accurately identify young girls at risk of iron deficiency, who may also be at risk of anaemia.
Sports injuries sustained during your period might be more severe
Research found that menstrual cycle fluctuations do not increase injury incidence but can lead to more severe and longer-lasting injuries. Female athletes may need to adapt their training schedules according to their menstrual cycle to reduce injury risk.
£13m NHS bill for ‘mismanagement’ of menstrual bleeds
A landmark UK study reveals that around £13 million is spent annually on hospital admissions and post-discharge care for acute heavy menstrual bleeding. The study suggests that many cases can be managed in the community or by outpatient services, reducing the need for expensive hospital admissions.
Hormonal fluctuations affect women’s immunity, but a lack of rigor in studies still prevents a consensus
Researchers found that inadequate characterization of the menstrual cycle in studies contributes to conflicting results. A new study aims to investigate the relationship between hormonal fluctuations and physical exercise, seeking to broaden understanding of women's immunity.
The odds of iron deficiency in adolescent girls are almost 14 times higher among those who experience heavy menstruation and follow a meat-restricted diet, compared to girls with normal menstruation who eat an omnivorous diet
A cross-sectional study found that adolescent girls experiencing heavy menstruation and following a meat-restricted diet have nearly 14 times higher odds of iron deficiency. This risk is significantly higher than those with normal menstruation who consume an omnivorous diet.
Menstruation, a topic still stigmatised
A Spanish study involving over 4,000 participants found that 4 out of 10 perceive menstruation as a stigmatised topic. The research highlights the persistence of stigma and its consequences on self-esteem and emotional well-being.
Menstrual cycle affects women’s reaction time but not as much as being active
A new study found that cognitive performance peaks during ovulation, while physical activity level has a greater influence on brain function. Reaction times are faster and errors are lower when active compared to inactive women, with a difference of around 70 milliseconds.
Period prepared: Research shows education helps teens feel informed, confident
A new program called Period Prepared provides hands-on menstruation curriculum for students in grades 3-12. The curriculum aims to educate adolescents about menstrual hygiene, stigma, and cycle monitoring, promoting confidence and reducing distress associated with lack of knowledge.
Artificial light changes synchronization with the Moon
Research team led by Charlotte Förster found that synchronization with the moon has decreased significantly since LED introduction and widespread smartphone use. Menstrual cycles now mostly align only in January when gravitational forces are at their highest.
Indian adolescents are mostly starting their periods at an earlier age than 25 years ago
Indian adolescents are starting their periods at an average age of 12.8 years, 1.3 years earlier than 25 years ago. Improved education and potential climate change are likely contributing factors.
Boys can help break taboo around periods
A new study by University College London researchers suggests that lessons on periods in British schools should be more comprehensive, covering the impact on well-being and academic performance. The study also recommends involving boys in menstruation education to promote better understanding and support for friends and future partners.
Early puberty and early childbirth may come with a cost
Girls who go through puberty before age 11 have double the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart failure, and obesity, while women who give birth before 21 have quadruple the risk. Later puberty and childbirth are associated with longer lifespan, lower frailty, and reduced disease risk.
Menstrual Equity Summit unites NYC teens in advocacy for menstrual justice
The Menstrual Equity Summit brought together over 200 NYC teens to educate themselves on menstrual health literacy, advocacy strategies, and intersectional approaches. The event celebrated gender equity and expanded access to menstrual products, while also connecting participants with local organizations championing reproductive justice.
Research update: PFAS found in several reusable period products
Researchers have identified PFAS in reusable period products, including underwear and pads, which may leach into wastewater and be absorbed through skin contact. Most products lacked intentional PFAS, but the study suggests these chemicals are unnecessary components.
Big data begins to crack the cold case of endometriosis
A study using anonymized patient records from UC health centers found over 600 correlations between endometriosis and other conditions, including infertility, autoimmune disease, and certain cancers. The research supports the growing understanding of endometriosis as a multi-system disorder.
ADHD link to severe premenstrual disorder uncovered in women
A new study from Queen Mary University of London found that women with ADHD are significantly more likely to suffer from premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Women with high levels of ADHD symptoms and impairment were over four times more likely to have PMDD, emphasizing the need for screening in females with ADHD. The findings high...
Chatbot system simulates group therapy to manage premenstrual syndrome
A research team has designed a chatbot system to simulate group therapy for managing premenstrual syndrome (PMS), a common disorder among women. The system provides simultaneous support for understanding, coping, and connections with peers, improving engagement and language convergence with participants.
Mild breast tenderness and a little swelling before flow are expected in healthy ovulatory cycles
A one-year study of 53 healthy women with regular ovulatory cycles found that mild breast tenderness and swelling before menstruation are common and expected. The study suggests that these symptoms may occur more frequently during normal ovulation than previously thought, contradicting previous assumptions about premenstrual syndrome.
A healthy diet in childhood is linked to starting menstrual periods later, regardless of BMI or height
A study published in Human Reproduction found that healthy childhood diets are associated with delayed onset of menstruation, independent of body mass index (BMI) or height. The research suggests that a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and breast cancer.
Menstrual cycle length changes following vaccination against influenza alone or with COVID-19
A cohort study found that vaccination against influenza alone or with COVID-19 was associated with a small but temporary change in menstrual cycle length. This finding may help clinicians confirm the utility of vaccination for patients concerned about menstrual side effects.
Open-label placebos improve premenstrual syndrome
A study found that open-label placebos alleviated symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) in women, with effects greatest when provided with additional information. The placebo effect played a significant role, accompanied by improved self-efficacy and reduced symptom intensity.
Researchers debunk common belief that women get better muscles by timing their workouts to their menstrual cycles
New research from McMaster University challenges the popular notion that women can build more muscle by syncing their workouts with their menstrual cycles. The study found no difference in muscle protein synthesis regardless of cycle timing, contradicting long-held advice and internet trends.
The gold standard of a randomized controlled study among NYC girls indicates that a book on puberty can lead to significant gains in knowledge and positive health outcomes
A randomized controlled study among NYC girls found that reading a book on puberty can lead to increased knowledge and positive attitudes towards physical activity during periods. The study, published in BMC Public Health, suggests that targeted puberty education can have significant impacts on young girls' health outcomes.
Depression can cause period pain, new study suggests
Researchers found a strong link between depression and menstrual pain in a new study published in Briefings in Bioinformatics. Depression may be a cause of dysmenorrhea, rather than a consequence, according to the findings.
Keto diet, supplements may restart stalled menstruation
A study found that increasing ketones through a keto diet or supplements can change menstrual frequency and intensity in pre-menopausal women. The research suggests that the presence of ketones, rather than weight loss, may regulate women's health.
Large variation in how girls grow after their first period
A study of 793 girls found significant variation in height growth after their first period, with most not reaching the expected 6-8 cm. Early onset of menstruation is linked to greater growth, while late onset is associated with shorter final height. Childhood BMI also plays a role in determining menarche age and subsequent growth.
Sport-related stress may affect whether college athletes eat enough calories
A new study led by Penn State researchers found that high-level collegiate sports stress can lead to unhealthy attitudes about eating and inadequate caloric intake. Athletes, especially female ones, are at risk for energy deficiency, eating disorders, and bone loss if they don't consume enough calories.
Menstrual cycle influences the spread of mutant cells in mammary tissue
A new study reveals that the menstrual cycle plays a role in spreading mutant cells within mammary tissue, leading to large fields prone to tumor formation. Researchers observed that the growth and removal of extra milk ducts during the menstrual cycle can contribute to this process.
Fuel level low! Energy deficits harm athletes’ health, new research tool reveals how
Researchers created a mouse model to study relative energy deficiency in sport (REDs), revealing the syndrome impacts the entire body and affects males and females differently. REDs leads to hormonal and reproductive issues, insomnia and fatigue, bone weakness and injury, and anxiety and depression.
Human endometrial map uncovers hidden health clues
The atlas contains data for around 626,000 cells from 121 people, including individuals with and without endometriosis. Researchers found two types of immune cells and two types of stromal cells potentially involved in endometriosis, highlighting new avenues for future research.
A hydrogel implant to treat endometriosis
Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a hydrogel implant to treat endometriosis by preventing retrograde menstruation and acting as a barrier to sperm. The implant can be easily destroyed and is compatible with native tissue, offering a promising non-surgical solution for women suffering from the condition.
Redefining "hormonal": The new nonprofit empowering women
Hormonally.org provides free-to-access, evidence-based resources on women's hormonal health, empowering women to seek care, treatment, and support. The nonprofit addresses stigmas and misinformation surrounding women's hormonal issues, fostering a supportive online community for connection and shared decision-making.
Talking about a taboo
Researchers investigated how stigma affects women's menstrual health practices in Bangladesh. A study on group discussions found that normalizing the topic of menstruation empowers women to access better menstrual products. Women were willing to pay more for pads and showed increased interest in alternative products after open discussi...
Menstrual periods are arriving earlier for younger generations, especially among racial minority and lower-income individuals
A new study found that average age at menarche has decreased by nearly a year over the past five decades, especially among Black, Hispanic, Asian, or mixed-race participants. The study also revealed that time to menstrual cycle regularity is increasing, particularly among lower-income individuals.
Female health apps misuse highly sensitive data, study finds
A study found female health apps exposing users to unnecessary privacy and safety risks through poor data handling practices. Researchers discovered apps coercing users into entering sensitive information that could put them at risk.
Positive associations between premenstrual disorders and perinatal depression
Researchers found a strong bidirectional relationship between premenstrual disorders and perinatal depression among over 900,000 women. Women with perinatal depression were more likely to develop premenstrual disorders after pregnancy and childbirth.
Bidirectional link between premenstrual disorders and perinatal depression
A nationwide Swedish study reveals a bidirectional link between premenstrual disorders (PMS/PMDD) and perinatal depression. Women with PMS/PMDD are five times more likely to experience perinatal depression, while those with perinatal depression are twice as likely to develop PMS/PMDD.
Research reveals link between menstrual cycles, emotions, and sleep patterns in women
Women experience disruptions in sleep patterns and heightened feelings of anger before their period, with reduced sleep efficiency and increased emotional distress. The study highlights the importance of considering hormonal fluctuations when addressing sleep disorders and emotional distress in women.
Study calls for putting menstrual health front and center in routine pediatric care
A new study calls on pediatric primary care to prioritize menstrual health, highlighting barriers that limit clinician engagement and patient guidance. Researchers offer practical solutions to improve access to menstrual health services for adolescents.
Study explores homeless women’s experiences of ‘period poverty’
Research has identified common issues homeless women face when experiencing periods, including practical challenges and feelings of embarrassment. The study highlights the need to address menstrual health resource provision as a basic human right.
Teenagers need better reproductive health education to tackle parenthood fears
Two new studies by UCL researchers found that nearly half of teenagers are worried about having children due to fear, self-doubt, and lack of education on reproductive health. The studies also highlighted gaps in sex education, with many students expressing concerns about endometriosis, infertility, and the impact of lifestyle on ferti...
Menstrual cycles affect day-to-day suicide risk, UIC researchers find
A new study by University of Illinois Chicago researchers found that female patients with a history of suicidality experience increased suicidal ideation and planning during the premenstrual phase, offering new guidance for clinicians. The study identified individual differences in how the menstrual cycle affects symptoms and suicidality.
Social factors drive use of scented menstrual products tied to health risks
Research finds that social factors, particularly racial and socioeconomic inequities, drive the use of scented menstrual products. The study found that Black participants were more likely to use scented products, while those with higher education levels preferred unscented options.
Young age at first menstrual cycle linked to heightened diabetes risk in mid-life
Research found a heightened risk of type 2 diabetes and stroke in women who started menstruating before age 13. Earlier age at first menstrual cycle was associated with higher diabetes risk after adjusting for influential factors, while very early age (10 or younger) linked to more than doubling stroke risk among those with diabetes.
Reliable research and evidence-based recommendations scarce for women who exercise according to menstrual cycle
A new review found sparse research on women and exercise, as well as limited understanding of the effect of menstrual periods on sports performance, physiology, or physical fitness. Hormone levels vary substantially between women during their menstrual periods, making a one-size-fits-all approach to training ineffective.
Calls for improved support about menstruation changes during perimenopause
A new study highlights how perimenopausal women's periods may become unpredictable, heavy, and cause worse premenstrual symptoms. The research suggests that improved education and support are needed to manage these changes, including extra support in the workplace, emotional support from loved ones, and access to support groups.
Making chemistry more accessible at the University of Oxford by providing period products
The Oxford Period Project provides free period products to all students and faculty, reducing stress and stigma around menstruation. The project aims to promote inclusivity and sustainability by offering eco-friendly alternatives.
Study suggests threshold for type 2 diabetes diagnosis in women under 50 years should be lowered
Researchers found that natural blood loss through menstruation may impact women's blood sugar control, leading to delayed diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. A lower HbA1c threshold for premenopausal women could help catch T2D earlier, improving health outcomes.
Review of over 70 years of menopause science highlights research gaps and calls for individualized treatment
A comprehensive review of over 70 years of menopause science emphasizes the need for more research into symptom timeline and treatment effectiveness. The authors advocate for holistic, individualized approaches addressing physical and mental health impacts of menopause.