Articles tagged with Menstruation
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...
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Scientists have developed a synthetic extracellular matrix that can support the growth of mini endometria in a dish for at least two weeks. This allows researchers to study its role in healthy and diseased states, such as endometriosis, by extrapolating from patient samples.
A study analyzed over 100 period products for the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a category of compounds linked to negative health outcomes. The researchers found that while PFAS are absent from many products, they may be accidentally or intentionally added to others.
Researchers compared absorbency of 21 menstrual hygiene products using human red blood cells, finding that menstrual discs held the most blood, while super-absorbency period pants held the least. The study highlights the need for more research on menstruation to improve diagnostic accuracy and care for women.
A Kenya-based study found that menstrual cups reduced the risk of bacterial vaginosis and improved vaginal microbiome in teenage girls. The study, funded by the National Institutes of Health, followed 436 Kenyan secondary school girls and tested for infections every six months.
A cross-sectional study found that caregivers of Brazilian girls with Down syndrome commonly expressed concerns about menstrual bleeding and sexual development, with most permitting their child to engage in romantic relationships. The study highlights the need for guidance on addressing difficulties related to menstruation, contracepti...
A new Boston University study found that COVID vaccines likely do not affect menstrual cycle regularity, bleed length, or pain. Menstrual cycles increased by 1.1 days after a first dose and 1.3 days after a second, but these changes resolved within one to two cycles.
A new study published in Human Reproduction found that women with endometriosis are more likely to experience a reduction in live births before receiving a definitive diagnosis. The research, which included over 18,000 women with surgically-confirmed endometriosis, showed that the number of first live births among these women was half ...
A Spanish study found that menstrual education is still inadequate, leading to embarrassing and stressful experiences during first periods. The research suggests that reliable information on managing symptoms and seeking medical help is crucial for improving menstrual health.
Researchers found that women with adenomyosis experienced higher rates of complications during pregnancy, including caesarean sections, surgical removal of the uterus, and wound complications. The study also linked adenomyosis to increased risks of pre-eclampsia, hypertension, and placenta previa.
Among US females ages 12-21, iron deficiency affected nearly 40%, while iron deficiency anemia occurred in approximately 6%. Menstruation was a significant risk factor for both conditions, with over one-quarter of premenarchal girls experiencing iron deficiency.
A small study suggests that vaginal progesterone treatment can increase the chances of conception in couples with unexplained infertility. The treatment, which is safe and low-cost, showed more than double the birth rate among treated women, but further research is needed to confirm these results.
Women with short or long menstrual cycles are at increased risk of cardiovascular disease events such as heart attack or AFib. The study analyzed data from over 58,000 women and found that irregular menstrual cycle length was associated with higher risks of CVD, independent of other factors.
A global study of 9,555 individuals found a 4% increase in heavy bleeding days and total bleeding quantity after COVID-19 vaccination. Changes often resolve by the first post-vaccination menstrual cycle.
A recent study published in iScience has found that Covid-19 vaccination does not cause concerning changes to periods. Women who have been infected with the Covid-19 virus are at increased risk of menstrual changes such as missed or heavier periods.
A study of female endurance athletes found that disturbances in eating behaviors predict a shorter sports career, as well as increased injuries. Menstrual dysfunction was also linked to both shorter careers and more frequent injuries.
Researchers discovered a significant increase in serotonin transporter density in the midbrain of patients with PMDD during the periovulatory phase, which was associated with increased depressed mood. The study suggests that taking SSRIs at specific times during the menstrual cycle may help target these changes and alleviate symptoms.
A UVA Health survey found that 45.2% of women report taking days off due to menstrual symptoms, affecting energy levels, mood, and work interest. Digital health apps like Flo can help manage symptoms, improve productivity, and reduce leave, with app users being 18-25% less likely to report impacted productivity.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found common risk factors for primary dysmenorrhea and premenstrual syndrome, including physical characteristics, menstrual characteristics, and lifestyle factors. Lifestyle changes such as maintaining regular sleep patterns, a healthy BMI, and stress management may help alleviate symptoms.
A new study by Staffordshire University reveals that women's football clubs in Europe are lacking in education on menstrual cycles, hormonal contraception, and pregnancy. The research highlights the need for more female coaches and formalized coach education to address these issues and promote player well-being.
Research from the University of Pittsburgh found that high COVID-19 stress in women is associated with changes in menstrual cycle length, period duration, and spotting. The study suggests that these changes can have economic and health consequences for women, including increased costs for feminine hygiene products.
Health advocacy groups are concerned that period product ingredient lists are not detailed enough and haven't been tested for safety. Despite increased disclosure, many chemicals listed have not been evaluated for use on vulva and vagina skin, limiting consumer informed purchasing decisions.
A free web-based resource called Menstruation Matters has been developed to provide young people with accurate information about menstrual health. The study found that nearly half of participants reported a change in their understanding of what a normal period is, and 94% could identify symptoms of endometriosis.
A new paper published in Social Science & Medicine proposes that synthetic steroids were administered to female captives in Nazi concentration camps to prevent menstruation and fertility. The study, led by Dr. Peggy J. Kleinplatz, is based on historical evidence and testimony from Holocaust survivors, who reported suspicious food ratio...
A new study found that premenstrual mood symptoms are incredibly common worldwide, affecting over 64% of women. The most common symptoms reported were food cravings, mood swings or anxiety, and fatigue. The researchers hope to increase awareness and improve treatment options for women with premenstrual symptoms.
A new study finds that women with menstrual cycles of fewer than 25 days during their reproductive years had a higher frequency of total menopause symptoms and an earlier age of natural menopause. Women with short menstrual cycles also experienced midlife sleep problems, heart discomfort, and depressive symptoms.
A recent Oregon State University study found that people living in socioeconomically deprived neighborhoods are 20% less likely to conceive compared to those in more resourceful areas. The study analyzed data from over 6,300 individuals and found a significant association between neighborhood disadvantage and lower fertility rates.
A study analyzing over 35,000 COVID-19 vaccine recipients found that 42.1% experienced heavier menstrual flow after vaccination. The analysis also revealed correlations between pre-vaccination reproductive history and hormonal status on the likelihood of experiencing these changes.
Researchers analyzed data from 599 patients with premenstrual dysphoric disorder and found that 34% have attempted suicide, with high rates of suicidal ideation, planning, and self-injury among women. The study highlights the need for accurate diagnosis and screening of suicidal ideation in patients with PMDD.
A UK-wide study found that menstrual cycle education is inconsistent and inadequate in UK schools. Teachers reported feeling unconfident and lacking knowledge to teach this subject, affecting pupils' attendance, behavior, and confidence.
A new €1.5 million project led by Dr Mel Channon will investigate menstrual justice and injustice in low- and middle-income countries, focusing on Nepal and Guatemala. The research aims to improve women's experiences and reduce negative impacts of menstruation, with a focus on menstrual pain.
A study of 273,240 women found that life events influencing estrogen levels may be linked to a higher risk of dementia. Ever having been pregnant or having had an abortion was associated with a lower risk, while early or late menopause increased the risk.
A new study reports breakthrough bleeding and other period symptoms in non-menstruating individuals after COVID-19 vaccination, highlighting the need to include gender-diverse people in vaccine research. The study found that one-third of respondents reported breakthrough bleeding, with some experiencing significant mental health impacts.
The Experimental Biology (EB) 2022 meeting features live presentations and a moderated Q&A session on groundbreaking studies. The virtual press conference reveals potential treatments for Parkinson's disease, COVID-19 vaccine-associated side effects, and alleviating food allergies.
A study involving 6,500 participants found a significant association between higher childhood body mass index and increased risk of premenstrual disorders. Young adults with higher childhood BMI experienced greater levels of premenstrual symptoms.
Researchers found that long or irregular menstrual cycles in young women are associated with an increased risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NAFLD is a chronic condition where excess fat builds up in the liver, increasing the risk of death. Lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of NAFLD in these women.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found associations between obesity and various female reproductive conditions. Researchers used Mendelian randomization to investigate causal links between body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, and risk of conditions like uterine fibroids and pre-eclampsia.
Two observational studies provide reassuring data on menstrual changes after COVID-19 vaccination, finding that any changes are short-lived and small. The studies, which drew from US and Norwegian data, suggest that cycle lengths return to normal by two cycles after vaccination.
Researchers at Boston University found no association between COVID-19 vaccination and conception likelihood in female or male partners. However, COVID-19 infection was linked to reduced fertility in men, particularly those testing positive within 60 days of a cycle.
A new study by Boston University School of Public Health investigators finds that COVID-19 vaccination in either partner does not impair fertility. In contrast, males who test positive for COVID within 60 days of a cycle have reduced fertility compared to uninfected men.
A NIH-funded study discovered a small, temporary increase in menstrual cycle length among women receiving COVID-19 vaccine. The average increase was less than one day, with no change in bleeding days.
Research suggests COVID-19 pandemic has adverse effects on women's menstrual cycles due to stress and sleep disturbance. Women are experiencing increased rates of depression, anxiety, and poor sleep.
A new study found that women whose menstrual cycle length increased two years before menopause had better vascular health than those with stable cycles. Changes in cycle length may predict cardiovascular disease risk, allowing clinicians to recommend preventive strategies.
Research reveals that restrictive eating and eating disorders are associated with a higher risk of injuries in female athletes, particularly those participating in lean sports. Menstrual dysfunction also plays a role, with athletes reporting missed training days due to injuries.
A new Northwestern Medicine study found that over half of US women and people who menstruate experienced changes in their menstrual cycle due to COVID-19 pandemic stress. Individuals with higher levels of stress reported heavier bleeding and longer periods.
Dr. Laura Payne's research will explore potential links between SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and menstrual cycle changes in adolescent girls. The study aims to measure levels of estradiol, progesterone, inflammation, and antibodies to determine the effects of COVID-19 vaccines on menstrual cycles.
Some women report changes in their periods after COVID-19 vaccination, with over 30,000 reports made to the UK's MHRA surveillance scheme. While most changes are short-lived, research into this possible adverse reaction is critical for the success of the vaccination programme.
A study of reproductive-aged women found that tampon users had higher urinary concentrations of certain VOCs than those who used pads/liners. However, no statistically significant associations were found between the use of menstrual products and VOCs during the menstrual cycle.
The need for public engagement on menstrual health is emphasized by a commentary in JAMA, highlighting the importance of sufficient funding and research. Menstrual equity is recognized as a human rights and public health issue with significant disparities affecting schoolgirls, women, and those experiencing homelessness.
A recent focus group study investigated the factors affecting endometriosis diagnosis, revealing significant delays in diagnosis. Women with endometriosis reported an average time of 8.5 years from symptom onset to diagnosis, highlighting a lack of knowledge and understanding among patients, relatives, and doctors.
A new European Women in Sport (E-WinS) project seeks to address issues specific to women in sport, such as the impact of menstruation and hormone-based contraception on performance. UK football clubs are invited to participate in an online survey and focus groups to share best practices.
Researchers found that most women's menstrual cycles aligned with synodic months at certain intervals, while also showing synchronization with tropical months in younger women, suggesting a stronger effect on menstrual cycles during long winter nights when exposed to moonlight.