Menstrual Cycle In Women Research Articles

The impact of chronic stress on the hormonal state of women affected by hostilities and displaced women

During times of war, refugee women often have high levels of chronic stress due to factors such as war, displacement and uncertainty. The study focuses on examining the hormonal responses of female refugees experiencing chronic stress from war and displacement.The objective: to assess the impact of chronic stress caused by war and displacement on the hormonal balance of refugee women.Materials and methods. 60 women were examined, who were divided into groups: the 1st group included women who were affected by hostilities (20 persons), and the 2nd group included displaced women (20 individuals). In these 40 women the hormonal studies were conducted in the conditions of military aggression in Ukraine. The control group (3rd group) included healthy women who were examined in the pre-war period. All examined women were 20–25 years old with an average body weight of 55–60 kg. Concentrations of progesterone, estradiol, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone, prolactin in the I and II phases of the menstrual cycle (MC), cortisol in the I phase of the MC were determined in blood serum using the enzyme immunoassay method. An analysis of the results of research on the role of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system in the regulation of the stress response was carried out.Results. In the examined women, various disorders of MC were observed, such as: menometrorrhagia, hypermenorrhea, acyclic uterine bleeding, oligomenorrhea, and amenorrhea. The most pronounced changes in menstrual function were observed in women who were affected by hostilities. Such significant disorders of MC in women of this group coincided with changes in indicators of gonadotropic hormones of the pituitary gland and sex hormones in the blood.A study of the psycho-emotional state of women who suffered from hostilities established that these women have a significant stressful effect of various risk factors on the body. Changes in the levels of cortisol, prolactin and other hormones were detected.Conclusions. Studies have shown that chronic stress affects the hormonal status of women affected by hostilities and of displaced women, including FSH, estradiol, and prolactin levels.A significant increase in the level of FSH in the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle and an increase in the level of estradiol in the luteal phase were determined, which may indicate a compensatory reaction of the body to stress. A significant increase in the level of prolactin was also found, which can cause disorders of menstrual function and affect the psycho-emotional state.

Biological Analysis of Factors Influencing the Acceleration of Menopause Age in Indonesian Women

Menopause marks the end of a woman's menstrual cycle, typically around age 51 in Indonesia. Early menopause, before age 45, increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and mental health issues. This study examined factors affecting menopause age, including BMI, excess weight, menstrual disorders, genetics, collagen supplement use, diabetes history, parity, hormonal contraception, age at menarche, fast food consumption, and nutritional status. Data from 1683 menopausal women were collected through questionnaires, BMI calculations, and analyzed using chi-square tests with SPSS 25. Results showed no significant influence of BMI, excess weight, genetics, collagen supplements, diabetes, fast food, or nutritional status on menopause age (p > 0.05). However, parity, hormonal contraception, age at menarche, and menstrual disorders significantly influenced menopause timing (p < 0.05). These findings offer insights for improving women’s reproductive health and guiding preventive measures.

Induced ruminative and mindful self-focus in daily life across the menstrual cycle in women with and without premenstrual dysphoric disorder

Rumination and mindfulness are transdiagnostic risk and protective factors while their role in Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is unclear. Thus, we aimed to investigate the cycle-phase-specific effects of rumination and mindful self-focus on momentary mood and cognitions in women with and without PMDD. This study involved brief ambulatory inductions of ruminative and mindful self-focus along with ambulatory assessments of negative (NA) and positive affect (PA), and rumination, present-moment-awareness (PMA) and self-acceptance on two days during both the follicular and late luteal phase in women with and without PMDD (n = 60 each). Compared to healthy controls, women with PMDD showed stronger increases in PA in response to mindful self-focus inductions during the late luteal phase, whereas no such group differences were identified during the follicular phase. Independent of clinical status and cycle phase, induced ruminative self-focus immediately increased momentary NA and rumination and decreased PMA, whereas induced mindful self-focus inductions increased momentary self-acceptance. Overall, higher PA-reactivity toward mindful self-focusing during late luteal phase in women with PMDD points to the potential of cycle-phase-specific mindfulness interventions for PMDD. Irrespective of cycle phase, rumination and mindfulness appear to represent targets for brief prevention and intervention measures for both non-clinical and clinical groups.

The relationship between menstrual cycle pattern and post-traumatic stress in women following the 2023 earthquake in Turkey.

In the aftermath of natural disasters, understanding the intricate links between mental health and physiological responses, such as menstrual cycle patterns, becomes crucial. This study explores the relationship between post-traumatic stress and menstrual irregularities among women of reproductive age residing in regions affected by the 2023 earthquake in Turkey. 309 women of reproductive age living in 11 provinces affected by the earthquake centered in Kahramanmaraş on February 6, 2023 and declared as disaster areas constituted the study sample. Data were collected online using Google forms nine months after the earthquake. The collected data were obtained using the Participant Information Form, Impact of Events Scale and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder-Short Form. In the data analysis, descriptive statistics such as count, percentage, median, minimum, and maximum were used, along with statistical tests including the Mann-Whitney U test, chi-squared test, multiple logistic regression analysis, and ROC analysis. In the study, an increase in menstrual irregularities among women was observed following the earthquake (%14.3 to %44.8, p<.001). Risk factors for menstrual irregularities included post-traumatic stress symptoms, comorbid chronic diseases, and smoking. The prevalence of PTSD was found to be 22.7% and this was associated with women with menstrual irregularities. Setting the cut-off score of the IES-R scale at 45.50 resulted in higher sensitivity for detecting irregular menstrual cycles. Women's menstrual cycles are affected after an earthquake. Therefore, post-earthquake mental health recovery programs should specifically address the protection of women's physical and mental health. This comprehensive approach can reduce the effects of earthquake-induced stress and trauma.

Expression of Endometrial Receptivity Markers throughout the Menstrual Cycle in Women with and without Uterine Adenomyosis.

Background/Objectives: While it is known that adenomyosis is associated with poor reproductive outcomes, the underlying mechanisms are unclear, and to date, there is no standard treatment protocol for these patients. Endometrium from adenomyosis patients is characterized by several abnormalities, potentially resulting in impaired receptivity and subsequent implantation failure. Methods: Endometrial biopsies were collected from 26 women with adenomyosis and 26 control subjects. Immunohistochemistry was performed to evaluate the expression of markers of endometrial receptivity, namely the progesterone receptor (PR), glycodelin, leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), homeobox A10 (HOXA10), integrin beta chain beta 3 (integrin β3) and osteopontin. Scanning electron microscopy was used to observe pinopodes on the surface of mid-secretory endometrial epithelium. Results: PR, LIF and osteopontin expression were all found to be weaker in secretory-phase stroma from adenomyosis patients than in healthy controls. HOXA10 expression was decreased in adenomyosis during the secretory phase, and also the proliferative phase, where it reached statistical significance in both epithelial and stromal compartments. Glycodelin and integrin β3 levels did not differ between diseased and healthy tissues in any of the cycle phases. Pinopodes were fewer and at later developmental stages in adenomyosis compared to those on the surface of healthy endometrium from the same time period of the menstrual cycle. Conclusions: Endometrium from adenomyosis patients is characterized by abnormal expression of various receptivity markers. The stromal compartment appears to be affected most, showing reduced expression of PR, LIF and osteopontin in the secretory phase and lower levels of HOXA10 during both proliferative and secretory phases. Decreased receptivity due to impaired stromal decidualization may contribute to poor reproductive outcomes in adenomyosis patients.

Effectiveness of Femm Approach in Managing Women with Subfertility in Mwanza, Tanzania

Introduction: Infertility is a disease of the male or female reproductive system defined by the failure to achieve a pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. Approximately one in six people have experienced infertility at some stage in their lives. In Tanzania, the prevalence of infertility is 16%. Most couples suffer from this condition silently without knowing what to do. FEMM (Fertility Education and Medical Management) has come to bring back hope and happiness in these patients. Case series: Here we present four cases of women with subfertility who have suffered for more than five years without being able to conceive. Very interesting they all conceived within two to four months after using the FEMM approach. Currently, they are all pregnant at different gestation ages. Conclusion: Women who are not ovulating cannot conceive. Many times the answers to infertility are hiding in plain sight within the patterns of a woman's menstrual cycle. Failure to ovulate is the first sign of an underlying health condition in a woman followed by irregular cycles. Observing characteristics of cervical mucus is a simple and non-expensive biomarker any woman can tell you about. Fertility awareness together with medical management helped these women to conceive.

Male Body Odor Affects Emotional State, LH, and Cortisol Secretion in Women of Different Age Groups.

Hormone changes across women's menstrual cycles may lead to changes in their perceptions of chemical signals and their hormonal responses to these cues. The aim of the present study was to determine the role of menstrual cycle phase in the response to extracts of male axillary secretions (EMAS) in women. We tested healthy reproductive age and premenopausal women (n = 29). An EMAS/control solution was applied once every two hours during either the follicular or luteal phase, at which point saliva samples for luteinizing hormone (LH) and cortisol monitoring were collected. LH and cortisol concentrations were analyzed using the enzyme immunoassay (EIA) technique. Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS) and Visual Analogue Scales (VAS) scores were used to assess the participants' moods. For the first time, we showed that EMAS may produce opposite effects on LH secretion depending on the menstrual cycle phase of the recipient. We observed a significant increase in the number of LH peaks (p = 0.0447) and their amplitudes (p = 0.0469) when EMAS was applied during the follicular phase, while the same application in the luteal phase lowered the amplitudes of LH peaks (p = 0.0382). For the first time, we showed that EMAS application increased salivary cortisol levels in reproductive age women relative to premenopausal women (p = 0.0032). PANAS scores revealed changes in positive and negative affect after EMAS application. Our data indicate the significance of the menstrual cycle phase for EMAS' effects on LH secretion and mood, but not on cortisol secretion in women.

Fluctuation of fine motor skills throughout the menstrual cycle in women

The effect of the menstrual cycle on fine motor skills is unclear. This study determined whether the menstrual cycle affected fine motor skills and related neural activities. Nineteen women with regular menstrual cycles were tested for fine motor skills using two types of tasks: grooved pegboard task (GPT), which evaluates motor control with high freedom of movements, and force modulation task (FMT), which evaluates more complex and fine motor control with low freedom of movements. We also assessed primary motor cortex intracortical circuits and sensorimotor integration using paired-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation to reveal why the menstrual cycle affects fine motor skills. The present study indicated that fine motor skills assessed by FMT varied throughout the menstrual cycle while those measured by GPT did not. These results suggest that fine motor skills requiring more complex and fine control may be affected by the menstrual cycle. Additionally, changes in fine motor skills throughout the menstrual cycle may be associated with the severity of menstruation-related symptoms.

Menstrual cycle disorders: a correlation with genetic alterations

The menstrual cycle is considered the fifth vital sign among women. The pituitary, thyroid, pancreas, adrenal, and ovaries are endocrine glands that play a crucial role in governing the menstrual cycle. Endocrine ailments trigger periods of menstruation disturbances throughout a woman's reproductive life. The duration and volume of menstrual bleeding can serve as indicators of endocrine problems. Oligomenorrhea, which refers to monthly periods longer than 35 days, is the most prevalent menstrual disruption observed in endocrine illnesses such as thyrotoxicosis, hypothyroidism, polycystic ovarian syndrome, Cushing's syndrome, and diabetes, based on the existing evidence. The intricate endocrine pathways are crucial in regulating a woman's menstrual cycle.. Menstrual Irregularities are caused due to eating disorders, extreme weight loss or too much exercising, Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), Premature ovarian failure, Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and Pregnancy or breast-feeding. Mensesare affected by various factors like junk food, obesity, skipping breakfast lack of physical activity etc. PCOS, Diabetes, Hyperprolactinemia, Hypothyroidism, Thyrotoxicosis, and Cushing’s syndrome are some menstrual disorders which occur due to genetic alterations. All these disorders can be primarily treated by Nutritional Considerations and herbal treatments. In order to achieve a regular menstrual cycle and overcome these diseases, nutritional supplements and lifestyle modifications must be prioritized.

The Relationship Between The Menstrual Cycle and The Incidence of Acne Vulgaris in Female Students at The Faculty of Medicine, Baiturrahmah University Padang Class of 2022

Acne vulgaris is a disease that attacks the pilosebaceous unit and can cause non-inflammatory and inflammatory lesions, as well as varying degrees of scarring. In Southeast Asia, the prevalence of acne vulgaris reaches 40-80% of cases. The exact etiology and risk factors for the development of acne vulgaris remain uncertain. However, one factor that is thought to play a role is the fluctuation in estrogen and progesterone that occur during the menstrual cycle in women. This study aimed to determine the relationship between the menstrual cycle and the incidence of acne vulgaris in student at the faculty of medicine, Baiturrahmah University, Padang, class of 2022. The type of research is observational analytics, consist of 48 samples using a consecutive sampling technique. Univariate data analysis is presented and bivariate analysis using the chi-square test. Data processing using the computerized SPSS version 25.0. The highest incidence of acne vulgaris was 75.0% and the highest menstrual cycle was normal was 64.6%. There is relationship between menstrual cycle disorders and the incidence of acne vulgaris (p=0.015) and none the relationship between abnormal menstrual cycles and the incidence of acne vulgaris (p=1.000). There is relationship between menstrual cycle disorders and the incidence of acne vulgaris and there is no relationship between abnormal menstrual cycles and the incidence of acne vulgaris instudent at the Faculty of Medicine, Baiturrahmah University, Padang, Class of 2022.

Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell Expression of Cation-Chloride Cotransporter (CCC) Genes in Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) across the Menstrual Cycle-A Preliminary Study.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a psychiatric condition characterized by debilitating affective symptomatology in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Based on the previous reports that PMDD may be related to GABAergic cellular dysfunction(s), we assessed whether cation-chloride cotransporter (CCC) gene expression across the menstrual cycle is altered in PMDD. As there are limitations in accessing the human CNS to study CCC-encoding genes, we utilized peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) as an alternative model. We first sought to replicate previous reports characterizing CCC gene expression patterns in PBMCs of reproductive age women. We subsequently investigated potential distinct CCC mRNA expression patterns in women with PMDD. We collected blood samples across 8 menstrual cycle visits for PBMC separation/RNA extraction to study mRNA expression of four KCCs (KCC1, KCC2, KCC3, KCC4) and two NKCCs (NKCC1, NKCC2) cotransporters. We mostly replicated the earlier gene expression pattern findings, and found that the expression levels of KCC1 were significantly downregulated during the mid-follicular and periovulatory subphases of the menstrual cycle in women with PMDD. The present study shows that PBMCs is a valid model for studying GABAergic mechanisms underlying PMDD.

Inhibitory influence of agmatine on catamenial-like seizure susceptibility in progesterone withdrawn female rats

Catamenial epilepsy is a condition marked by an increased occurrence of seizures that coincide with the menstrual cycle in women. Our study explored the role of neurotransmitter/neuromodulator agmatine in progesterone withdrawal induced increased seizure susceptibility that is one of the causes of catamenial epilepsy. Additionally, it investigates potential interactions between agmatine and the central neurosteroid system. The experiments involved the use of female Sprague-Dawley rats. To mime the seizure susceptibility as seen in catamenial epilepsy, rats were treated with PMSG and b-HCG which cause a higher release of progesterone and later injected with Finasteride on the 11th day of post-human chorionic gonadotropin administration to cause a sudden drop of progesterone. On the 12th day, seizure susceptibility was assessed through a low-dose (35 mg/kg) pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) injection. The results revealed that agmatine treatment showed a protective effect against seizures. Furthermore, this study explored the impact of neurosteroids such as allopregnanolone or progesterone (a precursor of allopregnanolone) and neurosteroidogenic drugs like FGIN 1–27 or metyrapone (an 11β-hydroxylase inhibitor) on the anticonvulsant effect of agmatine. The findings indicated that prior administration of these substances significantly enhanced the anticonvulsant effect of agmatine. In contrast, inhibiting neurosteroid production with drugs like trilostane (a 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase inhibitor) or indomethacin (a 3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase inhibitor) completely nullified agmatine's effect. Seizures were associated with elevated progesterone levels and reduced allopregnanolone levels, which were normalized by agmatine treatment. Notably, agmatine exhibited seizure protection even in ovariectomized rats, affirming the involvement of neurosteroids in its anti-seizure effects in progesterone withdrawal increased seizure susceptibility. In conclusion, these findings emphasize central neurosteroid involvement in agmatine's pharmacological effects against seizure susceptibility in progesterone withdrawal in female rats.

Correlation of sex hormone levels with orthodontic tooth movement in the maxilla: a prospective cohort study.

Sex hormones secreted during the menstrual cycle and the application of orthodontic forces to teeth can affect the metabolism of periodontal ligaments. This study aimed to determine whether there are any differences in orthodontic tooth displacement during the menstrual cycle and when using hormonal contraceptives and whether the amount of female sex hormones influences the efficiency of tooth displacement. A total of 120 women aged between 20 and 30 years with Angle Class II requiring transpalatal arch (TPA) to derotate teeth 16 and 26 were included in this study. The participants were divided into two groups: group A, which included women with regular menstruation, and control group B, which included women taking monophasic combined oral contraceptives. Group A was divided into subgroups according to the moment of TPA activation: menstruation (A1), ovulation phase (A2), and luteal phase (A3) (examination I). On intraoral scans, measurement points were marked on the proximal mesial cusps of teeth 16 and 26, and the intermolar distance (M1) was determined. The change in the position of the measurement points 6 weeks after activation (examination II) made it possible to determine the derotating extent of teeth 16 (O16) and 26 (O26) and the widening of the intermolar distance (M2-M1). In examinations I and II, tooth mobility in the alveoli was assessed using Periotest based on the periotest values (PTV) PTV1 and PTV2, respectively. A significant difference in all parameters was observed among groups A1, A2, and A3 (P < 0.001). Group A3 showed the highest values of parameters O16, O26, and M2-M1, and group A2 showed the lowest values, which did not differ from the control group (P = 0.64). PTV2 and PTV1 were the highest in group A3 and the lowest in groups A1 and B. Intergroup differences were statistically significant (P < 0.001). With the quantification of changes in tooth mobility in the alveoli during the menstrual cycle in women undergoing orthodontic treatment, it was possible to determine that female sex hormones affect the effectiveness of orthodontic treatment, and the optimal moment for TPA activation is the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.

Cross sectional analysis of muscular strength and flexibility during the menstrual cycle in women engaged in strength training

Hormonal variations during the menstrual cycle (MC) impact muscular strength and flexibility in women practicing strength training, potentially leading to performance reductions and increased injury susceptibility. Understanding these variations across MC phases is crucial for precise training program guidance. This cross-sectional, exploratory study assessed muscular strength and flexibility levels during the MC in 20 women (aged 20-35) engaged in strength training for at least 6 months. The Sit and Reach Test (SRT) measured flexibility, and the 1-Maximum Repetition Test (1RM) leg extension evaluated muscular strength during menstrual, post-menstrual, and pre-menstrual phases. While the post-menstrual period showed the highest strength values (50.65 ± 17.70 kg), no significant differences were observed compared to other phases. However, flexibility was significantly higher in the post-menstrual period (29.43 ± 8.69 cm) compared to menstrual (p=0.002) and pre-menstrual phases (p=0.001). Statistically, no significant differences were found in strength performance. Nevertheless, flexibility appeared influenced by MC phases, with superior outcomes in the post-menstrual period. This research enhances our understanding of how MC phases may impact strength and flexibility in women engaged in strength training, providing valuable insights for tailoring training programs to individual needs. Keywords: Hormonal fluctuations, Women's fitness, Exercise performance, Strength Training, Flexibility.

Menstrual changes after COVID-19 vaccination among menstruators of reproductive age: A cross- sectional study from Erbil City, Iraq.

The COVID-19 vaccination has been reported to have various post-vaccination effects, including potential changes in the menstrual cycle among menstruators of reproductive age. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between COVID-19 vaccination and menstrual changes among menstruators within Iraqi society and contribute to the knowledge about COVID-19 vaccine-related menstrual changes. The cross-sectional study involved a sample of 400 menstruators residing in Erbil City, Kurdistan Region, Iraq. The study specifically focused on individuals who were both infected and uninfected by COVID-19 and had received the COVID-19 vaccine. Individuals with hormonal diseases or those who had undergone hormonal therapy were excluded from the study. To ensure representation from different areas of Erbil City, the study was conducted in four primary healthcare centers selected based on geographic direction: South, East, North, and West sides. The author utilized a structured questionnaire to assess and compare changes in the menstrual cycle before and after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. The study found that a significant proportion (71.8%) of the participants experienced menstrual changes after receiving the COVID-19 vaccination, particularly after receiving both doses. These changes included alterations in the characteristics and symptoms of the menstrual cycle compared to before vaccination. The findings suggest that the COVID-19 vaccination can potentially affect the menstrual cycle in women of reproductive age. In conclusion, by revealing distinct changes in cycle characteristics and symptomatology, the study findings contribute to an expanding body of evidence supporting the connection between vaccination and menstrual alterations. Future studies with larger sample sizes and diverse populations are warranted to validate and expand upon the results of this study.

Assessment of Flexibility and Balance in Postmenopausal Women

Menopause refers to the period after when a women's menstrual cycle stops completely. Loss of follicular activity of the ovaries results in permanent cessation of menstruation which is referred as menopause. The menopausal age ranges between 45–55 years, average being 50 years. Reduced flexibility and strength in postmenopausal women can lead to various biomechanical changes and altered postures. To maintain balance, the body has different ways to adjust its position so that center of mass stays over base of support. As performance and activities in daily living have reduced assessment of flexibility has become important. Lack of flexibility leads to problem like lower back pain and lower limb tightness. Sit and reach test is most widely used for assessment of flexibility it represents hamstring, hip, and lower back flexibility.

Hubungan Antara Kadar Hormon Dengan Perdarahan Di Luar Siklus Menstruasi Pada Wanita Usia Subur

Bleeding disorders outside the menstrual cycle are reproductive system disorders commonly experienced by women during their reproductive years. These disorders are characterized by changes in menstrual periods, including alterations in cycle length, duration of menstruation, or volume of bleeding, with a worldwide prevalence ranging from 3% to 30%. Hormonal factors are often implicated as causes of bleeding disorders outside the menstrual cycle. Preliminary findings from a study conducted at RSIA Puri revealed that three female patients seeking treatment experienced bleeding disorders outside the menstrual cycle, with two of them exhibiting low estrogen levels (below 20 pg/ml) upon examination. The purpose of this study was to analyze the relationship between hormone levels, particularly estrogen, and bleeding outside the menstrual cycle in women of childbearing age at RSIA Puri Malang. The research employed a quantitative analysis through a cross-sectional approach. Primary and secondary data were obtained from laboratory examinations of estrogen levels in blood serum on the third day of menstruation. The sample consisted of 34 mothers who met the criteria of experiencing menstrual disorders and visited RSIA Puri Malang, and who willingly participated as respondents, selected through quota sampling. Data analysis was conducted using the Chi-square test, and the results revealed a significant relationship between estrogen levels and bleeding outside the menstrual cycle, or metrorrhagia (p-value = 0.018; OR = 0.107). This suggests that estrogen hormone regulation plays a crucial role in preventing menstrual irregularities. In conclusion, maintaining optimal estrogen hormone levels is essential for preventing and managing menstrual irregularities and bleeding disorders outside the menstrual cycle.

Psychophysiological Responses to High-Intensity Interval Training Exercise over Menstrual Cycle Phases: An Exploratory Study.

Although there is potential for the menstrual cycle to impact psychophysiological responses to exercise, there has been a paucity of studies investigating this aspect, specifically in the context of high-intensity interval training (HIIT). This exploratory study aimed to examine the psychophysiological responses to HIIT over the menstrual cycle. Twenty-three healthy and physically active young women were recruited. Each woman completed a cycle ergometer HIIT session in the menstrual, follicular, and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle in a random order. Psychophysiological variables of interest were collected at baseline, and during and after exercise. Primary variables of interest were anxiety, mood, motivation, enjoyment, arousal, affect, and menstrual distress. Higher pain, water retention, behavior change (related to social interactions, eating habits, and self-performance), and autonomic reactions (consisting of nausea, dizziness, hot flashes, and cold sweats) were observed before HIIT during the menstrual phase compared with the follicular phase ( P < 0.05). Participants exhibited worse psychological responses to HIIT sessions during the menstrual phase, followed by the luteal phase. Findings also noted participants arrived to the laboratory with lower motivation to initiate HIIT sessions during the luteal and menstrual phases compared with the follicular phase. This difference was observed before and during HIIT. Motivation and depressive symptoms showed a significant reduction from pre-HIIT to post-HIIT ( P < 0.05), regardless of menstrual phase. The findings revealed that the menstrual cycle had a significant impact on psychophysiological responses. Moreover, HIIT could be adopted to improve motivation and depressive symptoms; however, further research is needed to explore the effects of HIIT across the menstrual cycle in women with clinical depression.

Translation and validation of the Chinese version of the menstrual distress questionnaire

Background The Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ) is a commonly used questionnaire that assesses various symptoms and distress associated with the menstrual cycle in women. However, the questionnaire has not been completely translated into Chinese with rigorous reliability and validity testing. Methods This study translated the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire Form Cycle (MDQC) from English into Chinese: MDQCC in two stages. First, it was translated forward and backward using Jones’ model; second, to test the validity and reliability, 210 Chinese-speaking women were recruited through online announcements and posters posted between June 2019 and May 2020. Expert validity, construct validity, convergent validity, and factorial validity were determined using content validity index (CVI), intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), composite reliability (CR), and exploratory factor analysis, respectively. For concurrent criterion validity, MDQCC score was compared with three existing pain scales. Reliability was evaluated using internal consistency across items and two-week test-retest reliability over time. Results The CVI for content validity was .92. Item-CVI for expert validities among the 46 items ranged from .50 − 1; scale-CVI for the eight subscales, from .87 − 1; ICC, from .650 − .897; and CRs, from .303 − .881. Pearson correlation coefficients between MDQCC and short-form McGill pain questionnaire, present pain intensity, and visual analog scale scores were .640, .519, and .575, respectively. Cronbach’s α for internal consistency was satisfactory (.932). ICC for test-retest reliability was .852 for the entire MDQCC. Conclusion MDQCC was valid and reliable for Mandarin Chinese-speaking women. It can be used to evaluate female psychiatric symptoms related to the menstrual cycle in future work.

Impact of an Advanced Hybrid Closed-Loop System on Glycemic Control Throughout the Menstrual Cycle in Women with Type 1 Diabetes Prone to Hypoglycemia.

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of advanced hybrid closed loop (AHCL) on glycemic control throughout the menstrual cycle (MC) in women with type 1 diabetes. We included 39 pairs of spontaneous MCs from 13 participants, before and after switching from sensor-augmented pump to AHCL. Baseline time below range <70 mg/dL (TBR <70) was significantly higher during the midfollicular phase than during late luteal phase (5.7% ± 5.0% vs. 4.1% ± 3.0%), but similar time in range 70-180 mg/dL (TIR) was observed throughout the MC. After switching to AHCL, a reduction in TBR <70 and an increase in TIR were observed in all phases. Phase-dependent changes in insulin infusion were detected and pre-existing differences in TBR <70 were eradicated (3.5% ± 3.2% vs. 3.0% ± 3.0%). However, TIR became significantly higher during the early follicular phase than during the late luteal phase (79.1% ± 9.3% vs. 74.5% ± 10.0%). In conclusion, AHCL improved glycemic control throughout the MC, but performance differed according to phase.