An Analysis of Menstrual Symptoms, Menstrual Attitudes, Physical Stress and Psychological Stress According to the Menstrual Cycle Phase

BACKGROUND: Women undergo an array of menstrual symptoms, depending on the menstrual cycle period. This study aimed to gain a more objective understanding of the impact of menstruation by examining differences in menstrual symptoms, menstrual attitude, physical stress, and psychological stress across the menstrual cycle. METHODS: This study was conducted from Apr to Jun 2021 in the Gyeonggi Province of Korea. Women aged ≥20 yr were divided into premenstrual (n=17), menstrual (n=8), and postmenstrual periods (n=23). Menstrual symptoms and menstrual attitudes were assessed using questionnaires. Quantitative electroencephalography was used to assess the physical stress indices (left and right), and the psychological stress indices (left and right), with brainwave parameters quantified by frequency series power spectrum analysis. Data were compared using the non-parametric tests. RESULTS: More menstrual symptoms were experienced in the menstrual period than in the premenstrual period (Z=2.16, P=.031). Menstrual attitudes did not significantly differ among menstrual periods (Z=1.20, P=.231). Physical stress indices were high (≥10 μV) throughout the menstrual cycle and there were significant differences among the three periods (left: χ(2)=4.00, P=.035, right: χ(2)=5.78, P=.046). Psychological stress indices were >1 μV during the premenstrual and menstrual periods. CONCLUSION: Women experience more severe and diverse menstrual symptoms in the menstrual period than in other periods. Objective investigations are needed to inform an effective approach for addressing negative menstruation-related experiences.