Depression, anxiety, stress, and dysmenorrhea: a protocol for a systematic review Original paper
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Read MoreI am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.
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Women’s Health
Women’s Health
Women’s health, a vital aspect of medical science, encompasses various conditions unique to women’s physiological makeup. Historically, women were often excluded from clinical research, leading to a gap in understanding the intricacies of women’s health needs. However, recent advancements have highlighted the significant role that the microbiome plays in these conditions, offering new insights and potential therapies. MicrobiomeSignatures.com is at the forefront of exploring the microbiome signature of each of these conditions to unravel the etiology of these diseases and develop targeted microbiome therapies.
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Primary Dysmenorrhea
Primary Dysmenorrhea
Primary dysmenorrhea (PD) is painful menstrual cramps without underlying pelvic pathology, predominantly caused by elevated prostaglandins inducing uterine contractions and ischemia. Managing primary dysmenorrhea (PD) requires understanding its complex mechanisms involving prostaglandins, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Treatments include NSAIDs, hormonal therapies, and promising complementary options like probiotics, vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, exercise, yoga, acupuncture, and massage, significantly improving women's quality of life.
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Divine Aleru
Read More
Researched by:
-
Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Read More
Microbiome Signatures identifies and validates condition-specific microbiome shifts and interventions to accelerate clinical translation. Our multidisciplinary team supports clinicians, researchers, and innovators in turning microbiome science into actionable medicine.
Divine Aleru
What was studied?
This systematic review protocol aims to investigate the association between dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) and psychological distress, including depression, anxiety, and stress. The study will employ a meta-analysis to synthesize data from cohort, case-control, and cross-sectional studies published between 1990 and 2019. The primary focus is to explore how psychological disorders interact with dysmenorrhea, whether they exacerbate pain severity, and how the cycle of menstrual pain and psychological distress may influence each other. The review also seeks to identify possible sources of heterogeneity in previous studies, examining factors like study design, measurement methods, and population characteristics.
Who was studied?
The study will include empirical research articles involving women of various age groups, with no limitations regarding the type of dysmenorrhea or the presence of other chronic conditions. Studies must specifically address the relationship between dysmenorrhea and depression, anxiety, or stress. Research focusing on primary dysmenorrhea, psychological attributes, and their influence on pain perception will be included. The review will draw on data from diverse global populations, with studies of different methodological quality, ranging from descriptive to cohort studies.
Most important findings
This systematic review will synthesize data on the complex relationship between dysmenorrhea and psychological distress. Previous research suggests that psychological disorders like anxiety and depression are common in women with dysmenorrhea. The relationship between these conditions is thought to be bidirectional, with dysmenorrhea potentially increasing the risk of depression and anxiety, while pre-existing psychological distress exacerbates menstrual pain. Early reviews, such as those by Iacovides et al., proposed that severe dysmenorrhea might lead to heightened pain sensitivity, a theory that will be explored further in this systematic review. The review will also consider factors contributing to heterogeneity in findings, including the influence of socio-demographic variables like age, marital status, and family history of dysmenorrhea.
Key implications
This review has the potential to deepen our understanding of how dysmenorrhea and psychological distress interact, offering new insights into the management of both conditions. The results will provide clinicians with a better understanding of the psychological aspects of dysmenorrhea, highlighting the importance of addressing mental health when treating dysmenorrhea. The review aims to inform clinical practice by providing evidence for integrated treatment approaches that tackle both physical pain and mental health symptoms. Additionally, this research may pave the way for improved screening and early intervention strategies for women experiencing dysmenorrhea and psychological distress.
Primary Dysmenorrhea
Primary dysmenorrhea (PD) is painful menstrual cramps without underlying pelvic pathology, predominantly caused by elevated prostaglandins inducing uterine contractions and ischemia. Managing primary dysmenorrhea (PD) requires understanding its complex mechanisms involving prostaglandins, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Treatments include NSAIDs, hormonal therapies, and promising complementary options like probiotics, vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, exercise, yoga, acupuncture, and massage, significantly improving women's quality of life.