Relationship Between Body Mass Index and Menstrual Characteristics: A Cross Sectional Study Among the Students From College of Health Science Okofia, Nnewi.
CHAPTER ONE
Objective of the study
This study aims to achieve the following specific objectives:
- Determine the prevalence of menstrual irregularities, including variations in cycle length, frequency, and duration, among individuals with different BMI categories
- Investigate the physiological and hormonal mechanisms underlying the association between BMI and menstrual characteristics.
- Evaluate the impact of BMI-related menstrual irregularities on reproductive health, including fertility, ovulatory function, and the prevalence of conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
CHAPTER TWO
REVIEWED OF RELATED LITERATURE
The prevalence of menstrual irregularities
Menstrual irregularities are common among women of reproductive age and can encompass a wide range of disturbances in the menstrual cycle. These irregularities can include variations in cycle length, changes in menstrual flow, missed periods, and more. Several factors can contribute to menstrual irregularities, and their prevalence can vary across populations and age groups.
- Overall Prevalence: Menstrual irregularities are widespread, with studies suggesting that up to 30-35% of women experience some form of menstrual irregularity during their reproductive years (Harlow & Campbell, 1996; Munster et al., 1992). However, the prevalence can be higher among specific subgroups, such as adolescents, women with certain medical conditions, and those with lifestyle factors that can impact the menstrual cycle.
- Adolescent Population: Adolescents often experience a higher rate of menstrual irregularities as their bodies are still maturing. A study published in the Journal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology reported that approximately 33% of adolescents had menstrual irregularities, with the most common issues being cycle length variation and heavy menstrual bleeding (Dreisler et al., 2013).
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a common endocrine disorder that often leads to menstrual irregularities. The prevalence of PCOS varies across studies and populations, but it affects an estimated 6-12% of reproductive-age women (Azziz et al., 2016). Women with PCOS frequently experience irregular menstrual cycles, oligomenorrhea (infrequent periods), or amenorrhea (absence of periods).
- Stress and Lifestyle Factors: Stress, excessive exercise, and changes in body weight can contribute to menstrual irregularities. In a study published in the journal Fertility and Sterility, researchers found that 16% of women reported menstrual disturbances related to exercise, and 7% reported them related to work-related stress (Warren et al., 2002).
- Menopause Transition: Menstrual irregularities are also common during the menopause transition. As women approach menopause, their menstrual cycles may become less predictable, and they may experience changes in flow and duration. This transition typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 (Harlow & Ephross, 2012).
- Other Factors: Various medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders and uterine fibroids, can also lead to menstrual irregularities. The prevalence of these conditions varies, but they are recognized as common causes of menstrual disturbances (Society for Endocrinology, 2021; Stewart et al., 2017).
It’s important to note that while menstrual irregularities are common, they can sometimes signal underlying health issues. Women who experience persistent or severe menstrual irregularities should seek medical evaluation to determine the cause and appropriate management.
Menstrual irregularities are a prevalent concern among women, affecting a significant proportion of the female population at various stages of life. Understanding the contributing factors and recognizing when these irregularities may indicate an underlying health issue is crucial for providing appropriate care and support to women experiencing these disturbances.
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
INTRODUCTION
In this chapter, we described the research procedure for this study. A research methodology is a research process adopted or employed to systematically and scientifically present the results of a study to the research audience viz. a vis, the study beneficiaries.
RESEARCH DESIGN
Research designs are perceived to be an overall strategy adopted by the researcher whereby different components of the study are integrated in a logical manner to effectively address a research problem. In this study, the researcher employed the survey research design. This is due to the nature of the study whereby the opinion and views of people are sampled. According to Singleton & Straits, (2009), Survey research can use quantitative research strategies (e.g., using questionnaires with numerically rated items), qualitative research strategies (e.g., using open-ended questions), or both strategies (i.e., mixed methods). As it is often used to describe and explore human behaviour, surveys are therefore frequently used in social and psychological research.
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS
INTRODUCTION
This chapter presents the analysis of data derived through the questionnaire and key informant interview administered on the respondents in the study area. The analysis and interpretation were derived from the findings of the study. The data analysis depicts the simple frequency and percentage of the respondents as well as interpretation of the information gathered. A total of eighty (80) questionnaires were administered to respondents of which only seventy-seven (77) were returned and validated. This was due to irregular, incomplete and inappropriate responses to some questionnaire. For this study a total of 77 was validated for the analysis.
DATA PRESENTATION
Table 4.2: Demographic profile of the respondents
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
Introduction
It is important to ascertain that the objective of this study was to ascertain relationship between body mass index and menstrual characteristics: a cross sectional study among the students from College of Health Science Okofia, Nnewi.. In the preceding chapter, the relevant data collected for this study were presented, critically analyzed and appropriate interpretation given. In this chapter, certain recommendations made which in the opinion of the researcher will be of benefits in addressing the challenges of relationship between body mass index and menstrual characteristics.
Summary
This study was on relationship between body mass index and menstrual characteristics: a cross sectional study among the students from College of Health Science Okofia, Nnewi. Three objectives were raised which included: Determine the prevalence of menstrual irregularities, including variations in cycle length, frequency, and duration, among individuals with different BMI categories, investigate the physiological and hormonal mechanisms underlying the association between BMI and menstrual characteristics and evaluate the impact of BMI-related menstrual irregularities on reproductive health, including fertility, ovulatory function, and the prevalence of conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). A total of 77 responses were received and validated from the enrolled participants where all respondents were drawn from College of Health Science Okofia, Nnewi.. Hypothesis was tested using Chi-Square statistical tool (SPSS).
Conclusion
In conclusion, our exploration of the effectiveness, safety, and acceptability of interventions for menstrual irregularities in individuals with varying BMI levels underscores the importance of tailoring treatments to individual needs and circumstances. While each intervention approach has its merits and limitations, a holistic, multidisciplinary approach to care appears to offer the most comprehensive and patient-centered solution.
Lifestyle modifications, such as dietary changes and exercise, can be effective and safe when undertaken with proper guidance, but they must avoid extreme behaviors to prevent adverse effects. Hormonal interventions, including contraceptives and medications, can effectively manage menstrual irregularities, but ongoing research into safer and more effective options is crucial.
Surgical interventions, particularly bariatric surgery, can be highly effective but require careful consideration of risks and benefits. Psychological support, such as counseling and therapy, plays a pivotal role in helping individuals cope with the psychosocial consequences of menstrual irregularities.
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