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The Journal of Headache and Pain Jun 2024Endogeneous and exogeneous sex hormones can impact the frequency and severity of migraine attacks, but the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. In this study, we...
BACKGROUND
Endogeneous and exogeneous sex hormones can impact the frequency and severity of migraine attacks, but the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. In this study, we investigate the relationship between female sex hormones and Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide-38 (PACAP-38) concentrations in plasma of women with migraine and healthy controls, aiming to elucidate potential hormonal influences on PACAP dynamics and their relevance to migraine pathophysiology.
METHODS
This analysis is part of a cross-sectional, matched-cohort study. We recruited two groups of women with episodic migraine: one with a regular menstrual cycle (M-RMC) and another undergoing combined oral contraceptive treatment (M-COC). Additionally, we included corresponding age-matched control groups without migraine for both categories (C-RMC and C-COC). For participants with a RMC, the study visits were scheduled during the perimenstrual period (menstrual cycle day 2 ± 2) and periovulatory period (day 13 ± 2). Participants using COC were examined at day 4 ± 2 of the hormone-free interval and between day 7-14 of the hormone intake phase. During these visits, PACAP-38 concentrations in plasma were measured using a commercial Enzyme-linked-immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit.
RESULTS
The study included 120 women, with 30 participants in each group. Women with migraine and a RMC had significantly higher PACAP-38 plasma concentrations compared to healthy controls at both study visits [day 2 ± 2: M-RMC: 2547.41 pg/ml (IQR 814.27 - 4473.48) vs. C-RMC: 1129.49 pg/ml (IQR 257.34 - 2684.88), p = 0.025; day 13 ± 2: M-RMC: 3098.89 pg/ml (IQR 1186.29 - 4379.47) vs. C-RMC: 1626.89 (IQR 383.83 - 3038.36), p = 0.028]. In contrast, PACAP-38 levels were comparable between migraine and control groups receiving COC. Women with migraine and a RMC exhibited higher PACAP-38 concentrations during menstruation compared to those using COC during the hormone-free interval.
CONCLUSION
Systemic PACAP-38 concentrations in women vary based on the presence of migraine diagnosis and their hormonal status.
Topics: Humans; Female; Migraine Disorders; Cross-Sectional Studies; Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide; Adult; Cohort Studies; Menstrual Cycle; Young Adult; Gonadal Steroid Hormones; Contraceptives, Oral, Combined; Estradiol; Progesterone
PubMed: 38858641
DOI: 10.1186/s10194-024-01804-4 -
BMC Psychiatry Jun 2024Depression is a prevalent mental health problem in postmenopausal women. Given its significant impact on the quality of life and overall well-being of postmenopausal... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
Depression is a prevalent mental health problem in postmenopausal women. Given its significant impact on the quality of life and overall well-being of postmenopausal women, there is need for a comprehensive review and meta-analysis of the existing research globally. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the global prevalence of depression and potential associated factors in postmenopausal women.
METHODS
The Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO databases were systematically searched from inception to March 22, 2023. The meta-analysis used the random-effects model to calculate the prevalence of depression rates and associated factors. In addition, subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis were performed. Publication bias was assessed using funnel plots, Egger's test, and nonparametric trim-and-fill tests.
RESULTS
The meta-analysis included 50 studies that involved 385,092 postmenopausal women. The prevalence of depression in postmenopausal women was 28.00% (95% CI, 25.80-30.10). Among the factors relevant to depression among postmenopausal women, marital status (OR: 2.03, 95%CI: 1.33-3.11), history of mental illness (OR: 2.31, 95%CI: 1.50-3.57), chronic disease (OR: 3.13, 95%CI: 2.20-4.44), menstrual cycle (OR: 1.42, 95%CI: 1.17-1.72), abortion numbers (OR: 1.59, 95%CI: 1.40-1.80), menopausal symptoms (OR: 2.10, 95%CI: 1.52-2.90), and hormone replacement therapy (OR: 1.76, 95%CI: 1.31-2.35) were risk factors, while physical activity (OR: 0.56, 95%CI: 0.53-0.59), number of breastfed infants (OR: 0.43, 95%CI: 0.19-0.97), menopause age (OR: 0.44, 95%CI: 0.37-0.51) were preventive factors.
CONCLUSIONS
This study demonstrated that the prevalence of postmenopausal depression is high, and some risk factors and protective factors associated with it have been identified. It is necessary to improve screening and management and optimize prevention and intervention strategies to reduce the harmful effects of postmenopausal depression.
Topics: Humans; Postmenopause; Female; Prevalence; Risk Factors; Depression; Depressive Disorder
PubMed: 38858633
DOI: 10.1186/s12888-024-05875-0 -
PloS One 2024Physique competitions are weight-sensitive sports in which stage presentation, aesthetic appearance and posing ability of the athletes are judged rather than physical...
Menstrual cycle disorders as an early symptom of energy deficiency among female physique athletes assessed using the Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire (LEAF-Q).
Physique competitions are weight-sensitive sports in which stage presentation, aesthetic appearance and posing ability of the athletes are judged rather than physical performance. The aim of this study was to assess low energy availability among female physique athletes by using the LEAF-Q. The study involved 104 females who were physique athletes. Monthly cycle disorders were reported in 58.65% of the women, that is periods stopped for three consecutive months or longer (amenorrhea). This situation occurred before the research was conducted in 43.27% of athletes and during the research in 15.38%. The physique athletes claimed that menstruation changes occurred when there was an increased exercise intensity, frequency or duration. Absence from training due to injury was reported by 27.88% of the women. The LEAF-Q identified 46.15% of the physique athletes as at risk (score ≥ 8) of low energy availability and the physiological consequences related to RED-S. Women who had menstrual cycle disorders were younger and did more training per week. Among women with menstrual disorders, cramps or stomach ache which cannot be related to menstruation occurred more frequently (p = 0.004). Absence from training or lack of participation in competition due to injuries occurred more frequently in the score ≥ 8 group (p = 0.024) thank the ≤ score 8 group. In the score ≥ 8 group menstruation changes, that is less bleeding or cessation of menstruation (p = 0.035), occurred more frequently when there was an increase in exercise intensity, frequency or duration (p = 0.002).
Topics: Humans; Female; Athletes; Menstruation Disturbances; Adult; Young Adult; Surveys and Questionnaires; Adolescent; Menstrual Cycle; Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport; Exercise; Energy Metabolism
PubMed: 38848428
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0303703 -
Frontiers in Microbiology 2024Folliculogenesis and oligo/anovulation are common pathophysiological characteristics in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients, and it is also accompanied by gut...
INTRODUCTION
Folliculogenesis and oligo/anovulation are common pathophysiological characteristics in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients, and it is also accompanied by gut microbiota dysbiosis. It is known that physical activity has beneficial effects on improving metabolism and promoting ovulation and menstrual cycle disorder in PCOS patients, and it can also modulate the gastrointestinal microbiota in human beings. However, the mechanism remains vague. Irisin, a novel myokine, plays a positive role in the mediating effects of physical activity.
METHODS
Mice were randomly divided into the control group, PCOS group and PCOS+irisin group. PCOS model was induced by dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and high-fat diet (HFD). The PCOS+irisin group was given irisin 400μg/kg intraperitoneal injection every other day for 21 days. The serum sex hormones were measured by radioimmunoassay. Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) Staining and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were conducted on ovarian tissue. The feces microbiota and metabolomic characteristics were collected by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS).
RESULTS
In this study, we demonstrated that irisin supplementation alleviated reproductive endocrine disorders of PCOS mice, including estrous cycle disturbance, ovarian polycystic degeneration, and hyperandrogenemia. Irisin also improved the PCOS follicles dysplasia and ovulation disorders, while it had no significant effect on the quality of oocytes. Moreover, irisin could mitigate the decreased bacteria of Odoribacter and the increased bacteria of Eisenbergiella and Dubosiella in PCOS mice model. Moreover, irisin could alleviate the increased fecal metabolites: Methallenestril and PS (22:5(4Z,7Z,10Z,13Z,16Z)/ LTE4).
CONCLUSION
These results suggest that irisin may alleviate the status of PCOS mice model by modulating androgen-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis and fecal metabolites. Hence, our study provided evidence that irisin may be considered as a promising strategy for the treatment of PCOS.
PubMed: 38846566
DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1373077 -
Women's Health (London, England) 2024Period products like pads, tampons, and a variety of disposable and reusable hygiene supplies constitute just one facet essential for effectively managing menstruation...
Enhancing client engagement and alleviating period product insecurity: A cross-sectional study of community-based period supply banks' distribution of free period products through intermediary partner agencies in the United States.
BACKGROUND
Period products like pads, tampons, and a variety of disposable and reusable hygiene supplies constitute just one facet essential for effectively managing menstruation in a way that allows an individual to feel comfortable carrying out their daily routine. Given the absence of comprehensive public policies ensuring access to period products for economically disadvantaged menstruating individuals, community-based basic needs banks, particularly period supply banks, were established to alleviate the challenges faced by those experiencing period product insecurity. These initiatives specifically aim to furnish essential menstrual products to individuals in need.
OBJECTIVES
This study aimed to assess any organizational benefits experienced by community-based organizations distributing period products on behalf of period supply banks.
DESIGN
This cross-sectional study is a formative evaluation of the distribution of free period products by period supply banks, which provide access to essential menstrual hygiene products for individuals in need through partnership with community-based partner agencies.
METHODS
Staff members at agencies distributing period products were invited to complete an anonymous web-based survey at two different time points about their agency's experiences distributing free period products. All participants provided informed consent via the web-based survey.
RESULTS
Agency staff reported that since they started providing period products, clients were more likely to: start a conversation about other needs (66.7%), extend the length of their relationship with the agency (60.0%), keep scheduled appointments (62.1%), ask for assistance with another need (75.0%), communicate between visits (42.4%), participate in other agency programming (55.9%), and seek other agency services (73.5%). Due to a shortage of period products, 41% of agencies have had to turn away clients needing period supplies.
CONCLUSION
Period supply banks, in collaboration with community-based partner agencies, enhance access to both menstrual products and the associated support, fostering engagement with diverse resources and opportunities among recipients. However, addressing unmet needs necessitates policies and additional funding to ensure universal access to essential hygiene supplies for everyone to thrive and actively participate in society.
Topics: Humans; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; United States; Menstrual Hygiene Products; Adult; Menstruation; Surveys and Questionnaires
PubMed: 38842090
DOI: 10.1177/17455057241259731 -
Global Health Research and Policy Jun 2024In Namibia, the Value Added Tax (VAT) Amendment Act 2022, which reclassified the supply of sanitary pads as zero-rated, has significant implications for adolescent...
In Namibia, the Value Added Tax (VAT) Amendment Act 2022, which reclassified the supply of sanitary pads as zero-rated, has significant implications for adolescent girls' menstrual health and education. The policy change responds to the need to address period poverty by making essential menstrual products more accessible and affordable. Menstruation is a normal biological process, and access to sanitary products is a human right. Taxing menstrual products reinforces gender inequalities and raises concerns about the basic rights and dignity of women and girls. The VAT-free policy creates a system to reduce the financial burden on girls and women, making it easier for them to manage their periods safely and with dignity. It has the potential to reduce absenteeism from school, ultimately improving educational outcomes for adolescent girls. However, VAT exemptions alone are insufficient to address the broader accessibility issues that impact menstrual hygiene. Evidence-based policies that focus on the availability and affordability of a full range of sanitary products, in conjunction with regulatory mechanisms for price and quality control, are necessary to ensure that menstrual products are safe, affordable, and accessible for all.
Topics: Humans; Female; Adolescent; Menstrual Hygiene Products; Menstruation; Taxes; Namibia; Health Policy; Adolescent Health
PubMed: 38840125
DOI: 10.1186/s41256-024-00358-x -
Vaccine: X Aug 2024In initial COVID-19 clinical trials, menstrual health was not formally monitored, yet anecdotal reports of menstruation changes surfaced on social media. This study aims...
BACKGROUND
In initial COVID-19 clinical trials, menstrual health was not formally monitored, yet anecdotal reports of menstruation changes surfaced on social media. This study aims to assess the association between COVID-19 vaccines and menstruation using Clue, a period-tracking application.
STUDY DESIGN
A survey assessing demographics, menstrual health, stress levels, and COVID-19 vaccination was sent to Clue users between 12/7/2021 and 2/9/2022. Inclusion criteria were (1) 18 years or older (2) currently menstruating (3) not pregnant or breastfeeding since 1/2020. Menstrual data was collected for each participant. Users with cycle lengths more than 90 days were excluded. Cycle lengths were calculated for the 6-month average pre-vaccination (PRIOR), the cycle during which vaccination was administered (DURING), the cycle following DURING (AFTER1), and the cycle following AFTER1 (AFTER2). For periods, individuals were stratified based on whether vaccination was received during their menstrual period (DURING). Period lengths were additionally calculated for the 6-month average pre-vaccination (PRIOR), the first period following vaccination (AFTER1), and the period following AFTER1 (AFTER2). For unvaccinated participants, an index date (4/1/2022) was used to similarly designate menstrual cycles and periods. For each participant, cycle length changes for DURING, AFTER1, and AFTER2 compared to PRIOR were determined. Student's -test compared the mean of these changes between vaccinated and unvaccinated groups.
RESULTS
Of 7,559 participants, 6,897 (91 %) were vaccinated. Compared to PRIOR, individuals vaccinated during their menstrual period demonstrated a statistically significant increase in the DURING period length, but not AFTER1 (p = 0.463) and AFTER2 (p = 0.692). No statistically significant changes were observed in period lengths of those vaccinated in between periods or in cycle lengths overall.
CONCLUSION
A small but statistically significant change in period length was observed only in individuals vaccinated for COVID-19 during their menstrual period. Providers can better counsel menstruating individuals to reduce vaccine misinformation.
PubMed: 38832342
DOI: 10.1016/j.jvacx.2024.100501 -
Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine Jun 2024Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries often occur when an athlete experiences an unexpected disruption, or perturbation, during sports. ACL injury rates may also be...
BACKGROUND
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries often occur when an athlete experiences an unexpected disruption, or perturbation, during sports. ACL injury rates may also be influenced by the menstrual cycle.
PURPOSE
To determine whether training adaptations to knee control and muscle activity during a perturbed single-leg squatting (SLS) task depend on menstrual cycle phase in female athletes.
STUDY DESIGN
Controlled laboratory study.
METHODS
A total of 21 healthy female collegiate athletes (current or former [<3 years]) who competed in 9 different sports performed an SLS task in which they attempted to match their knee position (user signal) to a target signal. The protocol consisted of a 9-condition pretest, 5 sets of 3 training trials, and a 9-condition posttest. One perturbation was delivered in each condition by altering the resistance of the device. Sagittal knee control (absolute error between the target signal and user signal) was assessed using a potentiometer. Muscle activity during perturbed squat cycles was normalized to maximal activation and to corresponding muscle activity during unperturbed squat cycles (%unperturbed) within the same test condition. Athletes performed the protocol during a distinct menstrual cycle phase (early follicular [EF], late follicular [LF], midluteal [ML]). Two-way mixed analysis of variance was used to determine the effects of the menstrual cycle and training on knee control and muscle activity during task performance. Venous blood was collected for hormonal analysis, and a series of health questionnaires and anthropometric measures were also assessed to determine differences among the menstrual cycle groups.
RESULTS
After training, athletes demonstrated better knee control during the perturbed squat cycles (lower absolute error, < .001) and greater soleus feedback responses to the perturbation (%unperturbed, = .035). Better knee control was demonstrated in the ML phase versus the EF phase during unperturbed and perturbed squat cycles ( < .039 for both). Quadriceps activation was greater in the ML phase compared with the EF and LF phases, both immediately before and after the perturbation ( < .001 for all).
CONCLUSION
Athletes learned to improve knee control during the perturbed performance regardless of menstrual cycle phase. The best knee control and greatest quadriceps activation during the perturbed squatting task was found in the ML phase.
CLINICAL RELEVANCE
These findings may correspond to a lower incidence of ACL injury in the luteal phase and alterations in exercise performance across the menstrual cycle.
PubMed: 38831876
DOI: 10.1177/23259671241251720