Rhinomanometric and olfactometric variations throughout the menstrual cycle

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Reproductive Endocrinology
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can influence various physiological processes.
• Previous research has suggested potential links between the menstrual cycle and sensory perception, including olfaction.
• Understanding these cyclical changes is crucial for interpreting nasal and olfactory function in women.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prospectively evaluate rhinomanometric values and olfactory thresholds in premenopausal women across different menstrual cycle phases.
• To investigate the relationship between ovarian steroid variations and nasal airflow/olfactory sensitivity.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study involving 60 healthy premenopausal women (18-40 years).
• Rhinomanometry and olfactometry performed during follicular, periovular, and luteal phases.
• Analysis of airflow, transnasal pressure, and olfactory threshold to odors.

Main Results:

• Rhinomanometry indicated higher airflow during the periovular phase, though not statistically significant compared to other phases.
• Olfactometry revealed significantly higher olfactory sensitivity during the follicular (p < .05) and periovular (p < .001) phases versus the luteal phase.
• These findings suggest a correlation between menstrual cycle phase and nasal airflow and olfactory perception.

Conclusions:

• Ovarian steroid variations throughout the menstrual cycle appear to influence nasal airflow and transnasal pressure during spontaneous respiration.
• Olfactory threshold sensitivity is also dependent on these hormonal fluctuations, being higher in the follicular and periovular phases.
• The study highlights the impact of the menstrual cycle on nasal function and olfactory perception in women.