Dysmenorrhea pattern in adolescences informing adult endometriosis 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 study explores the relationship between dysmenorrhea patterns during adolescence and the development of adult endometriosis (EMs). Dysmenorrhea, a common symptom in adolescents, is frequently associated with EMs, a chronic condition that can lead to infertility if left untreated. The study sought to identify adolescent dysmenorrhea characteristics, such as frequency, onset, and severity, that could predict the likelihood of developing EMs in adulthood. By collecting data from 1,287 participants, including 641 women with EMs and 646 healthy controls, the study aimed to quantify the risks of adult EMs based on adolescent dysmenorrhea patterns and lifestyle factors.
Who was studied?
The study involved 1,287 female participants aged 18 to 55, with 641 diagnosed with EMs and 646 serving as healthy controls. Participants were matched for age and recruited from Shenzhen Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital. Dysmenorrhea frequency, onset, intensity, and distress were among the key factors analyzed. Additional factors included family history of dysmenorrhea, physical activity levels, dietary habits, and sun-sensitivity, all of which were hypothesized to influence the development of EMs. The study focused on women who experienced menstrual pain during adolescence, investigating whether these early symptoms were predictive of later endometriosis.
Most important findings
The study identified a strong correlation between the frequency and onset of adolescent dysmenorrhea and the risk of developing adult EMs. Individuals who experienced frequent dysmenorrhea (often or always) during adolescence had a significantly higher risk of adult EMs. Those with dysmenorrhea occurring more than 12 months after menarche were found to be at an even greater risk. The study also highlighted lifestyle factors, such as high-intensity physical activity and sun-sensitive skin, as contributing to the frequency of dysmenorrhea. The predictive model, developed using logistic regression and validated with external cohorts, demonstrated strong predictive capabilities, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.812.
Key implications
The findings underscore the importance of recognizing dysmenorrhea patterns in adolescence as early indicators of potential future endometriosis. Early identification of high-risk individuals based on dysmenorrhea frequency and onset can facilitate timely intervention and management, potentially reducing the long-term impact of EMs. This predictive model could guide healthcare providers in offering preventive care, improving disease outcomes, and minimizing fertility disruptions in adulthood. The study advocates for further research to validate these findings through long-term cohort studies and molecular analyses to refine the model and better understand the pathophysiology of EMs.
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.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis involves ectopic endometrial tissue causing pain and infertility. Validated and Promising Interventions include Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), Low Nickel Diet, and Metronidazole therapy.