Effects of a Bovine Lactoferrin Formulation from Cow’s Milk on Menstrual Distress in Volunteers 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 explored the effects of a bovine lactoferrin formulation (FeLf) from cow’s milk on menstrual distress. The researchers aimed to assess whether FeLf could alleviate various menstrual symptoms, including psychological distress and pain. FeLf, a complex of lactoferrin and iron, was administered daily from day ten of the luteal phase to day four of the follicular phase. The study measured menstrual distress using the Moos Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ), heart rate variability (as an index of autonomic nerve balance), and self-reported pain and quality of life scores.
Who was studied?
The study involved 35 healthy Japanese women aged 20–49 years, all with regular menstrual cycles. Participants were selected based on the presence of subjective dysphoria during menstruation, specifically pain. Women with allergies to dairy products or other exclusion criteria were excluded from the study. The study was conducted over two menstrual cycles, with participants receiving either FeLf or a placebo during their first cycle and switching treatments after a washout period.
Most important findings
The study found that FeLf significantly improved the MDQ score for the autonomic nervous system subscale, indicating better autonomic balance compared to the placebo. Specifically, parasympathetic nervous system activity was enhanced in the FeLf group. Additionally, heart rate variability (HFA) was significantly higher in the FeLf group, suggesting a beneficial effect on autonomic function during menstruation. However, no significant differences were found in menstrual pain intensity or overall quality of life between the FeLf and placebo groups. The study also noted that no side effects were reported during the intervention, suggesting FeLf is well-tolerated.
Key implications
The findings suggest that FeLf could be a beneficial non-pharmacological approach for improving the psychological and autonomic symptoms associated with menstrual distress. While it did not significantly reduce menstrual pain, its positive effects on the autonomic nervous system highlight its potential for alleviating the psychological aspects of dysmenorrhea. These results indicate that FeLf may offer a safe and effective alternative for women seeking relief from menstrual distress, particularly for those who prefer non-pharmacological treatments. However, further studies with larger sample sizes and longer treatment durations are needed to fully understand its impact on pain and overall quality of life.
Lactoferrin
Lactoferrin (LF) is a naturally occurring iron-binding glycoprotein classified as a postbiotic with immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, and prebiotic-like properties.
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.