Location

Moultrie, GA

Start Date

7-5-2025 1:00 PM

End Date

7-5-2025 4:00 PM

Description

Introduction: Menstrual health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, yet many individuals experience cycle irregularities influenced by psychological and physiological stressors. Research suggests that both acute and chronic stressors can impact hormonal regulation, leading to menstrual disturbances. Despite growing evidence of this relationship, gaps remain in understanding the underlying mechanisms and effective interventions.

Objective: This literature review aims to examine the relationship between stress and menstrual irregularities by analyzing physiological mechanisms, psychological and lifestyle influences, and potential mitigation strategies.

Methods: A systematic review of peer-reviewed articles, clinical studies, and meta-analyses published in the past two decades was conducted using databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar. Studies focusing on human subjects of reproductive age were prioritized. Findings were categorized based on physiological mechanisms, psychological stressors, and lifestyle factors.

Results: Chronic stress is associated with menstrual irregularities due to dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis. Elevated cortisol levels suppress gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), leading to disrupted follicular development, anovulation, and alterations in cycle length. Psychological factors such as anxiety and depression further contribute to menstrual disturbances, while lifestyle factors—including poor sleep, diet, and excessive workload—exacerbate stress-related dysfunctions. Findings suggest an increased prevalence of extended or shortened cycles, heightened premenstrual symptoms, and, in some cases, amenorrhea among individuals experiencing chronic stress.

Conclusion: The evidence strongly supports the link between stress and menstrual irregularities through neuroendocrine pathways. However, further research is needed to develop effective interventions for stress-induced menstrual dysfunction. Future studies should explore individualized stress management strategies, such as mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and lifestyle modifications, to enhance menstrual health outcomes. Addressing these factors can provide valuable insights for healthcare providers in optimizing reproductive healthcare and promoting overall well-being.

Embargo Period

12-2-2025

Comments

Awarded "Best Original Research: Runner Up" at PCOM South Georgia Research Day 2025.

Available for download on Tuesday, December 02, 2025

COinS
 
May 7th, 1:00 PM May 7th, 4:00 PM

Addressing the effects of stress on menstrual cycle regularity and symptoms: A review of contributing Factors, racial disparities, and lifestyle interventions

Moultrie, GA

Introduction: Menstrual health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, yet many individuals experience cycle irregularities influenced by psychological and physiological stressors. Research suggests that both acute and chronic stressors can impact hormonal regulation, leading to menstrual disturbances. Despite growing evidence of this relationship, gaps remain in understanding the underlying mechanisms and effective interventions.

Objective: This literature review aims to examine the relationship between stress and menstrual irregularities by analyzing physiological mechanisms, psychological and lifestyle influences, and potential mitigation strategies.

Methods: A systematic review of peer-reviewed articles, clinical studies, and meta-analyses published in the past two decades was conducted using databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar. Studies focusing on human subjects of reproductive age were prioritized. Findings were categorized based on physiological mechanisms, psychological stressors, and lifestyle factors.

Results: Chronic stress is associated with menstrual irregularities due to dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis. Elevated cortisol levels suppress gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), leading to disrupted follicular development, anovulation, and alterations in cycle length. Psychological factors such as anxiety and depression further contribute to menstrual disturbances, while lifestyle factors—including poor sleep, diet, and excessive workload—exacerbate stress-related dysfunctions. Findings suggest an increased prevalence of extended or shortened cycles, heightened premenstrual symptoms, and, in some cases, amenorrhea among individuals experiencing chronic stress.

Conclusion: The evidence strongly supports the link between stress and menstrual irregularities through neuroendocrine pathways. However, further research is needed to develop effective interventions for stress-induced menstrual dysfunction. Future studies should explore individualized stress management strategies, such as mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and lifestyle modifications, to enhance menstrual health outcomes. Addressing these factors can provide valuable insights for healthcare providers in optimizing reproductive healthcare and promoting overall well-being.