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Lee H, Kim J. Direct and Indirect Effects of Stress and Self-Esteem on Primary Dysmenorrhea in Korean Adolescent Girls: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 53:116-125. [PMID: 38694871 PMCID: PMC11058392 DOI: 10.18502/ijph.v53i1.14688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
Background Positive and negative emotions have recently revealed a link with primary dysmenorrhea in adults. Among them, roles of stress and self-esteem have been less studied specially in adolescents and the direction of causality has not been clearly established. Therefore, this study investigated whether stress and self-esteem independently affect primary dysmenorrhea after adjustment for the known risk factors in adolescents. Additionally, indirect effects of stress and self-esteem were determined using mediation analyses. Methods This survey was conducted in adolescent girls aged 15-18 yr in metropolitan regions in South Korea in 2021. The survey included general, menstrual, and lifestyle characteristics, menstrual pain and symptom, perceived stress, self-esteem, depression, and state-trait anxiety. Results Stress, depression, and anxiety were associated positively with menstrual pain and symptom (all P<0.001) in adolescent girls (n=519). Self-esteem was also associated inversely with negative emotions and dysmenorrhea (all P<0.001). Additionally, stress independently affected frequency and severity of menstrual symptom (both P<0.05), but not pain intensity after adjustment for covariates. Stress also had indirect effect through depression and anxiety on menstrual pain and symptom. Effect of self-esteem vanished after adjustment for covariates, but indirectly reduced menstrual pain and symptom through mediations of stress, depression, and anxiety. Conclusion Mental health such as stress and self-esteem are important for managing menstrual pain and symptom in adolescents. It should be considered in managing dysmenorrhea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heakyong Lee
- Graduate School of Alternative Medicine, Kyonggi University (Seoul Campus), Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaehee Kim
- Graduate School of Alternative Medicine, Kyonggi University (Seoul Campus), Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Ishikura IA, Hachul H, Tufik S, Andersen ML. Dysmenorrhea and Sleep: A Review. Sleep Med Clin 2023; 18:449-461. [PMID: 38501517 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsmc.2023.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
This review encompasses the clinical features and relevance to investigate sleep in women with dysmenorrhea. Dysmenorrhea is a prevalent gynecologic dysfunction that affects the social and professional lives of women. It can occur at every menstrual cycle, depending on the cause and psychologic factors. Studies have reported poor sleep and insomnia symptoms in dysmenorrhea condition, which may intensify the dysmenorrhea manifestation and interfere negatively to its treatment. There is an urgent need to identify the main cause of this dysfunction and provide efficient treatments to minimize the detrimental effects of dysmenorrhea in quality of life of these women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabela A Ishikura
- Departamento de Psicobiologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua Botucatu, 862 - Vila Clementino - 04023062 - São Paulo - SP - Brazil
| | - Helena Hachul
- Departamento de Ginecologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua Botucatu, n° 740 - Vila Clementino - 04023-062 - São Paulo - SP - Brazil
| | - Sergio Tufik
- Departamento de Psicobiologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua Botucatu, 862 - Vila Clementino - 04023062 - São Paulo - SP - Brazil
| | - Monica L Andersen
- Departamento de Psicobiologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua Botucatu, 862 - Vila Clementino - 04023062 - São Paulo - SP - Brazil.
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Rogers SK, Ahamadeen N, Chen CX, Mosher CE, Stewart JC, Rand KL. Dysmenorrhea and psychological distress: a meta-analysis. Arch Womens Ment Health 2023; 26:719-735. [PMID: 37632569 DOI: 10.1007/s00737-023-01365-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Dysmenorrhea is characterized by pelvic pain associated with menstruation. Similar to people with other pain conditions, females who experience dysmenorrhea report increased psychological distress. However, the pooled magnitude of this association has not been quantified across studies. Accordingly, this meta-analytic review quantifies the magnitude of the associations between dysmenorrhea severity and psychological distress. We conducted a systematic search of the literature using PsycINFO, PubMed, CINHAL, Embase, and Web of Science. Analyzed studies provided observational data on dysmenorrhea severity and anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, and/or global psychological distress. A total of 44 studies were included, and three random-effects meta-analyses were conducted, with average pooled effect sizes calculated using Person's r. We found significant, positive associations between measures of dysmenorrhea severity and measures of depressive symptoms (r = 0.216), anxiety symptoms (r = 0.207), and global psychological distress (r = 0.311). Our review suggests that females with greater dysmenorrhea severity experience greater psychological distress. Future directions include defining a clinically meaningful dysmenorrhea severity threshold, understanding the mechanisms and directionality underlying the dysmenorrhea-psychological distress relationship, and designing and testing interventions to jointly address dysmenorrhea and psychological distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah K Rogers
- School of Science, Department of Psychology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, 402 N. Blackford St., LD 113A, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA.
| | - Naheeda Ahamadeen
- School of Science, Department of Psychology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, 402 N. Blackford St., LD 113A, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Chen X Chen
- School of Nursing, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Catherine E Mosher
- School of Science, Department of Psychology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, 402 N. Blackford St., LD 113A, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Jesse C Stewart
- School of Science, Department of Psychology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, 402 N. Blackford St., LD 113A, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Kevin L Rand
- School of Science, Department of Psychology, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, 402 N. Blackford St., LD 113A, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
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Kovács Z, Hegyi G, Szőke H. The Effect of Exercise on Pulsatility Index of Uterine Arteries and Pain in Primary Dysmenorrhea. J Clin Med 2023; 12:7021. [PMID: 38002635 PMCID: PMC10671949 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12227021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary dysmenorrhea (PD) is one of the most common diseases in women of reproductive age. Our aim was to examine whether a twice-weekly thirty-minute exercise intervention could result in a difference in the pulsatility index (PI) of the uterine arteries (UAs) and level of menstrual pain in patients with PD. METHODS In our prospective observational trial, the observation period included one spontaneous menstrual cycle and the consecutive time of the next menstruation of all participants, aged 18-44, with no extensive sports experience. In total, 73 volunteers were enrolled: 38 persons in the intervention group (IG) and 35 in the control group (CG). The intervention program was accompanied by music, performed in groups under the supervision of a qualified instructor in Hungary. The primary outcome was the difference between the IG and CG regarding the PI values of UAs at the 1st and the 2nd ultrasound (US) Doppler flowmetry. The secondary outcome was the difference between the IG and CG regarding the PI of UAs and menstrual pain measured by using the Numeric Rating Scale and adherence to the intervention. Statistical tests such as an independent-samples t-test, chi-square test, Mann-Whitney test and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) were used during the analyses. RESULTS Examining the mean of the PI of UAs in the IG and the CG at the 1st and the 2nd US measurement, a significant difference was found in the change in the measured value (Z = -2.545; p = 0.011). The IG showed a significantly higher increase in the mean of the PI of UAs (Median = 0.825) than the CG (Median = 0.130). The difference in the PI of the UAs of the IG and the CG is not related to the level of pain in any group (p = 0.336) and not related to the whole sample (p = 0.354); furthermore, the level of pain did not significantly differ between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS Our study is the first to document the significant effects of mild-to-moderate exercise training on the change in the PI of the UAs in individuals with PD. The IG had a reduced blood flow due to circulatory redistribution after exercise. The level of menstrual pain of primary dysmenorrhea patients is independent of the level of blood circulation regarding the PI of the UAs. Randomized controlled studies with more participants and a longer research period are needed to confirm our findings regarding the association between regular exercise and the PI of UAs. The study was registered at clinicaltrials.gov: NCT04618172.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoltán Kovács
- Department of Obstetrics, Robert Hospital, 1135 Budapest, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, 7621 Pécs, Hungary; (G.H.); (H.S.)
| | - Gabriella Hegyi
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, 7621 Pécs, Hungary; (G.H.); (H.S.)
| | - Henrik Szőke
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, 7621 Pécs, Hungary; (G.H.); (H.S.)
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, 7621 Pécs, Hungary
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Liu L, Hu J, Lu J, Yang J. Clinical Observation on Auricular Acupressure for Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Study Protocol for a Randomized Clinical Trial. J Pain Res 2023; 16:3217-3225. [PMID: 37753489 PMCID: PMC10519210 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s414416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The objective of this study is to evaluate the immediate and time-dependent effects of AA in treating PD and assess its safety. Methods/Design This study is a randomized, single-blinded, controlled trial that will enroll 92 patients in a 1:1 allocation ratio. Patients will be assigned to either the treatment group (n=46) or the control group (n=46). During the first menstrual period, the treatment group will receive AA treatment, while the control group will receive sham AA treatment for 7 days. The second menstrual period will serve as the follow-up period. The primary outcome measure is the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score 30 min after the first treatment. Secondary outcome measures include the VAS score immediately after the first treatment, onset time of analgesic effect, duration of pain, extra dosing rate of ibuprofen, and change of the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ) score. The outcomes will be assessed at baseline, during the intervention period, and during the follow-up period. Conclusion The study results will provide evidence on the efficacy and safety of AA in managing PD by analyzing its immediate effect, time-effect relationship, and reduction of painkiller use. Trial Registration Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2300069741).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lumin Liu
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Junwei Hu
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Junjie Lu
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard University T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jiaxin Yang
- Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
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Rogers SK, Galloway A, Hirsh AT, Zapolski T, Chen CX, Rand KL. Efficacy of psychological interventions for dysmenorrhea: a meta-analysis. PAIN MEDICINE (MALDEN, MASS.) 2023; 24:1086-1099. [PMID: 37154693 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnad058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Dysmenorrhea is pelvic pain associated with menstruation and is one of the most common pain conditions among reproductive-age women. It is commonly treated with medications, complementary and alternative medicine, and self-management techniques. However, there is increased focus on psychological interventions which modify thoughts, beliefs, emotions, and behavioral responses to dysmenorrhea. This review examined the efficacy of psychological interventions on dysmenorrhea pain severity and interference. We conducted a systematic search of the literature using PsycINFO, PubMed, CINHAL, and Embase. A total of 22 studies were included; 21 examined within-group improvement (ie, within-group analysis) and 14 examined between-group improvement (ie, between-group analysis). Random-effects meta-analyses were conducted on pain severity and interference, with average effect sizes calculated using Hedges's g. Within-group analyses showed decreased pain severity and interference at post-treatment (g = 0.986 and 0.949, respectively) and first follow-up (g = 1.239 and 0.842, respectively). Between-group analyses showed decreased pain severity at post-treatment (g = 0.909) and decreased pain severity and interference at first follow-up (g = 0.964 and 0.884, respectively) compared to control groups. This review supports the efficacy of psychological interventions for dysmenorrhea, but conclusions are tempered by suboptimal methodological quality of the included studies and high heterogeneity across studies. Additional, rigorous research is needed to determine the clinical utility of psychological interventions for dysmenorrhea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah K Rogers
- Department of Psychology, School of Science, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Amanda Galloway
- Department of Psychology, School of Science, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Adam T Hirsh
- Department of Psychology, School of Science, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Tamika Zapolski
- Department of Psychology, School of Science, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Chen X Chen
- Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
| | - Kevin L Rand
- Department of Psychology, School of Science, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States
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Gray LJ, Durand H. Experiences of dysmenorrhea and its treatment among allistic and autistic menstruators: a thematic analysis. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:288. [PMID: 37231369 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02370-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dysmenorrhea (i.e., period pain) is common and debilitating. Autistic people are known to experience pain differently, yet little is known about the menstrual pain experiences of autistic menstruators relative to non-autistic peers. This study aimed to explore the experience of period pain and treatment uptake for period pain among allistic and autistic populations. METHODS This study used a qualitative design and opportunity sampling approach. Thirty-seven participants (of whom 17 were autistic) were interviewed via video-conferencing software using a semi-structured topic guide. Transcriptions of interviews were analysed using Braun and Clarke's Reflexive Thematic Analysis. Data were initially analysed together for common themes. Autistic menstruators' data was subsequently analysed separately to elucidate the unique experiences of this group. RESULTS A total of six themes were constructed from the data. Initial analysis determined three themes related to experiences of period pain and treatment uptake in both allistic and autistic menstruators. Social perception of menstruation was discussed, highlighting the normalisation of pain, the taboo nature, and gendered experience of menstruation, contributing to untreated menstrual pain. Issues within menstrual healthcare were also shared, including experiences of ineffective treatment, dismissive interactions, and insufficient menstrual education. Impaired functionality was repeatedly highlighted, with menstruators detailing significant limitations to their usual functioning due to menstrual pain and ineffective treatment. Three further themes were constructed from separate analysis of data from autistic menstruators. Autistic menstruators discussed the impact of menstruation on their sensory experiences and needs, with many identifying overstimulation during menstruation. Social exclusion was discussed as a factor contributing to the experience of menstrual pain and poor treatment uptake. The final theme identified pain communication differences between autistic and allistic menstruators resulting in reports of ineffective treatment and challenges in healthcare interactions. CONCLUSIONS Communication differences, sensory aspects, and social factors contributed to the experience of period pain and treatment uptake for autistic menstruators. The perception of menstruation within society was highlighted by allistic and autistic menstruators as influential to their pain experience and engagement with treatment. Functionality was significantly impacted by pain for this sample. The study highlights societal and healthcare factors that could be improved to ensure accessibility of support and treatment for menstrual issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren J Gray
- Division of Psychology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland
- Department of Psychology, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, Scotland
| | - Hannah Durand
- Division of Psychology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland.
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Lazaridis A, Grammatis AL, Spencer S, Hirsch M. Nonsurgical management of adenomyosis: an overview of current evidence. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2022; 34:315-323. [PMID: 35895912 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Adenomyosis is a condition where endometrium-like tissue spreads within the myometrium. Although its prevalence in the general population is not exactly known, its clinical manifestations are well established and include pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea (painful periods), heavy menstrual bleeding and subfertility [1] . Adenomyosis often coexists with other gynaecological conditions, such as endometriosis or fibroids, and may cloud the clinical presentation [2] . The aim of this article is to review current noninterventional, nonsurgical management modalities and wherever possible offer information that allows women to make safe and informed choices regarding their treatment options. RECENT FINDINGS Recent studies support that medical strategies, including the Mirena coil, Dienogest and GnRH antagonists, are efficient in improving adenomyosis-associated symptoms. High-quality evidence is scarce and is needed to properly counsel women with this condition. Future research should prioritize overall pain, menstrual bleeding, quality of life and live birth as primary outcomes and assess women with different grades of adenomyosis. SUMMARY This review provides the most current evidence with regards to the nonsurgical management of adenomyosis. In light of the paucity and low quality of existing data, high-quality trials are needed to definitely determine the impact of conservative and medical treatment on the clinical management of adenomyosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros Lazaridis
- Oxford Endometriosis CaRe Centre, Nuffield Department of Women's & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford
| | | | - Stuart Spencer
- Oxford Endometriosis CaRe Centre, Nuffield Department of Women's & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford
| | - Martin Hirsch
- Oxford Endometriosis CaRe Centre, Nuffield Department of Women's & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford
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Itani R, Soubra L, Karout S, Rahme D, Karout L, Khojah HMJ. Primary Dysmenorrhea: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment Updates. Korean J Fam Med 2022; 43:101-108. [PMID: 35320895 PMCID: PMC8943241 DOI: 10.4082/kjfm.21.0103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary dysmenorrhea (PD) is a common, disregarded, underdiagnosed, and inadequately treated complaint of both young and adult females. It is characterized by painful cramps in the lower abdomen, which start shortly before or at the onset of menses and which could last for 3 days. In particular, PD negatively impacts the quality of life (QOL) of young females and is the main reason behind their absenteeism from school or work. It is suggested that increased intrauterine secretion of prostaglandins F2α and E2 are responsible for the pelvic pain associated with this disorder. Its associated symptoms are physical and/or psychological. Its physical symptoms include headache, lethargy, sleep disturbances, tender breasts, various body pains, disturbed appetite, nausea, vomiting, constipation or diarrhea, and increased urination, whereas its psychological symptoms include mood disturbances, such as anxiety, depression, and irritability. While its diagnosis is based on patients’ history, symptoms, and physical examination, its treatment aims to improve the QOL through the administration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, hormonal contraceptives, and/or the use of non-pharmacological aids (e.g., topical heat application and exercise). Patients must be monitored to measure their response to treatment, assess their adherence, observe potential side effects, and perform further investigations, if needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rania Itani
- Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beirut Arab University, Beirut, Lebanon
- Corresponding Author: Rania Itani https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4316-3224 Tel: +961-70-614-735, Fax: +961-1-300110 Ext: 2627, E-mail:
| | - Lama Soubra
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beirut Arab University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Samar Karout
- Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beirut Arab University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Deema Rahme
- Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beirut Arab University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Lina Karout
- Department of Radiology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hani M J Khojah
- Department of Clinical and Hospital Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taibah University, Madinah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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Chen CX, Carpenter JS, Gao X, Toh E, Dong Q, Nelson DE, Mitchell C, Fortenberry JD. Associations Between Dysmenorrhea Symptom-Based Phenotypes and Vaginal Microbiome: A Pilot Study. Nurs Res 2021; 70:248-255. [PMID: 33813547 PMCID: PMC8222084 DOI: 10.1097/nnr.0000000000000510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dysmenorrhea is highly prevalent; it places women at risk for other chronic pain conditions. There is a high degree of individual variability in menstrual pain severity, the number of painful sites, and co-occurring gastrointestinal symptoms. Distinct dysmenorrhea symptom-based phenotypes were previously identified, but the biological underpinnings of these phenotypes are less known. One underexplored contributor is the vaginal microbiome. The vaginal microbiota differs significantly among reproductive-age women and may modulate as well as amplify reproductive tract inflammation, which may contribute to dysmenorrhea symptoms. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to examine associations between dysmenorrhea symptom-based phenotypes and vaginal microbiome compositions on- and off-menses. METHODS We conducted a prospective, longitudinal, pilot study of 20 women (aged 15-24 years) grouped into three dysmenorrhea symptom-based phenotypes: "mild localized pain," "severe localized pain," and "severe multiple pain and gastrointestinal symptoms." Over one menstrual cycle, participants provided vaginal swabs when they were on- and off-menses. We assayed the vaginal microbiome using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Permutational multivariate analysis of variance tests were used to compare microbiome compositions across phenotypes, with heat maps generated to visualize the relative abundance of bacterial taxa. RESULTS The vaginal microbiome compositions (n = 40) were different across the three phenotypes. After separating the on-menses (n = 20) and off-menses (n = 20) specimens, the statistically significant difference was seen on-menses, but not off-menses. Compared to the "mild localized pain" phenotype, participants in the "multiple severe symptoms" phenotype had a lower lactobacilli level and a higher abundance of Prevotella, Atopobium, and Gardnerella when on-menses. We also observed trends of differences across phenotypes in vaginal microbiome change from off- to on-menses. DISCUSSION The study provides proof-of-concept data to support larger studies on associations between dysmenorrhea symptom-based phenotypes and vaginal microbiome that might lead to new intervention targets and/or biomarkers for dysmenorrhea. This line of research has the potential to inform precision dysmenorrhea treatment that can improve women's quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen X. Chen
- Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | | | - Xiang Gao
- Loyola University Chicago, Stritch School of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Maywood, IL
| | - Evelyn Toh
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Qunfeng Dong
- Loyola University Chicago, Stritch School of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Maywood, IL
| | - David E. Nelson
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Caroline Mitchell
- Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - J. Dennis Fortenberry
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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Armour M, Hyman MS, Al-Dabbas M, Parry K, Ferfolja T, Curry C, MacMillan F, Smith CA, Holmes K. Menstrual Health Literacy and Management Strategies in Young Women in Australia: A National Online Survey of Young Women Aged 13-25 Years. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol 2021; 34:135-143. [PMID: 33188935 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpag.2020.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE To explore key aspects of menstrual health literacy and menstrual management in young women at school or in tertiary education. DESIGN Cross-sectional online survey. SETTING Australia-wide. PARTICIPANTS A total of 4202 adolescent and young women (13-25 years of age; median age 17 years), having reached menarche, living in Australia and currently attending school (n = 2421) or tertiary education (n = 1781). INTERVENTIONS Online survey hosted by Qualtrics between November 2017 and January 2018. Data were collected on contraceptive use, management strategies, sources of information, and knowledge of menstruation. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Information on prevalence and effectiveness of different management strategies, health-seeking behavior, knowledge about menstruation, and common menstrual disorders such as endometriosis. RESULTS The majority of young women did not seek medical advice for their menstrual symptoms, but used information from the Internet (50%) and engaged in self-management, most commonly with over-the-counter medications such as paracetamol (51%) or ibuprofen (52%). Oral contraceptive use was relatively common (35%), and mostly for reduction of menstrual pain (58%). Despite having significant dysmenorrhea, approximately one-half of the participants (51%) thought that their period was normal. Women with higher pain scores were more likely to rate their period as "abnormal" (P < .0001) but not more likely to consult a doctor (P = .13). Only 53% of those at school had heard of endometriosis. CONCLUSION Self-management of menstrual symptoms is common, but a significant minority of women are underdosing or choosing ineffective methods. Most women do not seek medical advice even when symptoms are severe, and cannot identify symptoms suggestive of secondary dysmenorrhea. Improved education on menstruation is vital.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mike Armour
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia; Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia.
| | - Mikayla S Hyman
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia; Department of Sociology/Anthropology, Middlebury College, Middlebury, Vermont
| | - Mahmoud Al-Dabbas
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Kelly Parry
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Tania Ferfolja
- Centre for Educational Research, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Christina Curry
- Centre for Educational Research, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Freya MacMillan
- Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia; School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Caroline A Smith
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia; Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Kathryn Holmes
- Centre for Educational Research, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
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Tu CH, Lin CL, Yang ST, Shen WC, Chen YH. Hormonal Contraceptive Treatment May Reduce the Risk of Fibromyalgia in Women with Dysmenorrhea: A Cohort Study. J Pers Med 2020; 10:jpm10040280. [PMID: 33327434 PMCID: PMC7768424 DOI: 10.3390/jpm10040280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysmenorrhea is the most common gynecological disorder for women in the reproductive age. Study has indicated that dysmenorrhea might be a general risk factor of chronic pelvic pain and even chronic non-pelvic pain, such as fibromyalgia. We used the Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2000 from the Taiwan National Health Research Institutes Database to investigate whether women with dysmenorrhea have a higher risk of fibromyalgia and whether treatment of dysmenorrhea reduced the risk of fibromyalgia. The dysmenorrhea cohort was matched with a non-dysmenorrhea cohort at a 1:1 ratio based on gender, age, and the year of entry study by frequency matching. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to assess the risk of fibromyalgia, with controlling for potential confounding variables such as age, comorbidities, and medication use. After controlling confounding variables, results revealed that women with dysmenorrhea have a significantly higher risk of fibromyalgia than women without dysmenorrhea. However, only treatment of dysmenorrhea with hormonal contraceptives reduce the risk of fibromyalgia. These results indicated that dysmenorrhea may be a risk factor of fibromyalgia, whereas personalized medicine for treatment of dysmenorrhea may be the key to reduce the risk of fibromyalgia. Future studies are needed to identify the causes and prevention strategies in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Hao Tu
- Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung 404333, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (C.-H.T.); (Y.-H.C.); Tel.: +886-4-22053366 (C.-H.T.) (ext. 3336)
| | - Cheng-Li Lin
- Management Office for Health Data, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404332, Taiwan;
| | - Su-Tso Yang
- Department of Medical Imaging, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404332, Taiwan;
- School of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 404333, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Chih Shen
- Center of Augmented Intelligence in Healthcare, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404332, Taiwan;
- Department of Computer Science and Information Engineering, Asia University, Taichung 413305, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hung Chen
- Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung 404333, Taiwan
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Research Center, China Medical University, Taichung 404333, Taiwan
- Department of Photonics and Communication Engineering, Asia University, Taichung 41354, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (C.-H.T.); (Y.-H.C.); Tel.: +886-4-22053366 (C.-H.T.) (ext. 3336)
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