Work schedule and physically demanding work in relation to menstrual function: the Nurses' Health Study 3.

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Reproductive Epidemiology
• Nursing Research

Background:

• Nurses experience various occupational exposures that may impact their health.
• Menstrual cycle characteristics are sensitive indicators of reproductive health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between occupational exposures and menstrual cycle characteristics in nurses.
• To identify specific work-related factors contributing to menstrual disturbances.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study using data from 6309 nurses (aged 21-45) from the Nurses' Health Study 3 (2010-2012).
• Multivariable regression modeling was employed to analyze associations.
• Evaluated occupational exposures including work hours, night shifts, and physical demands.

Main Results:

• 19% of nurses reported irregular menstrual cycles.
• Working ≥41 hours/week was associated with higher prevalence of irregular and short cycles.
• Night work (only or rotating) and heavy lifting were significantly linked to irregular cycles.
• Rotating night schedules were associated with longer cycle lengths.

Conclusions:

• Occupational factors such as night work, extended work hours, and physically demanding tasks may contribute to menstrual disturbances among nurses.
• Findings suggest a need for interventions to mitigate these occupational risks.