The impact of stress on the regularity of menstrual cycle during COVID-19 pandemic

Introduction: Regular menstrual cycle is one of the factors of woman's health. All of menstrual cycle disturbances are a manifestation of anatomical an physiological pathologies affecting female fertility. Stress is one of factors affecting of menstrual cycles regularity. Aim of study: The aim of the study was to analyse the association between levels of stress and regularity of menstrual cycle in women of reproductive age. Material-Methods: The study group included 271 menstruating women. The survey was performed nation-wide by Internet among adult Poles. Study questionnaire included 41 questions. The level of stress was assessed on the basis of the 4-grade scale. The exclusion criteria were hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, hyperprolactinemia, hyperandrogenism, congenital adrenal hyperplasia and depression. For statistical analysis authors used Statistica 12.0. Results: A correlation between subjective level of stress and regularity of menstrual cycle was showed (p<0.05). As many as 80% of women which reported irregular menstruation suffered from high or medium level of stress. Conclusion: High levels of stress is associated with irregular menstrual cycle.