Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 14, 2026

Isolation, Processing and Analysis of Murine Gingival Cells
Published on: July 2, 2013
Periodic exacerbation of gingival inflammation during the menstrual cycle
Nobuko Koreeda1, Yoshihiro Iwano, Mamoru Kishida
1Department of Periodontology, Nihon University School of Dentistry, Tokyo, Japan.
Abstract:
Sex hormones are believed to be a risk factor for periodontitis because of their ability to proliferate specific periodontal microorganisms and affect host immunologic response. In this case report, gingival redness and swelling occurred during the menstrual cycle, although the patient maintained good oral hygiene during periodontal treatment. Medical history revealed that exacerbation of gingival inflammation corresponded to the menstrual cycle and occurred during the ovulation period, when estrogen levels are high. Mean bleeding index of the ovulation period (18.9%) showed higher levels than that during the menstrual phase (5.3%). This case indicates that frequent and effective maintenance should be provided while considering the influence of the menstrual cycle, as sex hormones may be involved in exacerbating gingival inflammation.
Related Concept Videos
Hormonal Regulation of the Menstrual Cycle
At puberty, GnRH begins a pulsatile release pattern, which triggers the anterior pituitary gland to secrete follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). The frequency and amplitude of GnRH pulses vary across the menstrual cycle, with faster pulses favoring LH release and slower pulses favoring FSH release.
The Oral Microbiota
Disorders of the Female Reproductive System
Menses Phase
When fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum deteriorates, causing a significant drop in the levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body. This hormonal decrease triggers the release of prostaglandins, which cause the uterine...
The Menstrual Cycle
The menstrual phase occurs from days 1 to 5 and involves the shedding of the stratum functionalis, as a uterine...
Secretory Phase
Following ovulation, the corpus luteum, a temporary endocrine structure, produces progesterone and estrogens. These hormones stimulate the growth and coiling of endometrial...