Association between menstrual cycle irregularity and tinnitus: a nationwide population-based study

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Otolaryngology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Tinnitus, a perception of sound without external source, affects many women.
• Menstrual cycle irregularity is a common gynecological issue.
• The relationship between menstrual cycle regularity and tinnitus requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between menstrual cycle irregularity and tinnitus in premenopausal Korean women.
• To explore the impact of menstrual irregularity duration on tinnitus prevalence.
• To identify potential risk factors for tinnitus in women of childbearing age.

Main Methods:

• Population-based cross-sectional study using data from the 5th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2010-2012).
• Included 4633 premenopausal women.
• Hierarchical multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to assess associations.

Main Results:

• 21.6% of participants reported tinnitus.
• Women with tinnitus or irregular cycles reported higher stress, depressive mood, and suicidal ideation.
• A positive association was found between menstrual cycle irregularity and tinnitus, with longer duration correlating with increased odds (ORs ranging from 1.37 to 1.71).

Conclusions:

• Menstrual cycle irregularity is positively associated with tinnitus in premenopausal women.
• The duration of menstrual irregularity appears to be a significant factor influencing tinnitus risk.
• Menstrual cycle irregularity may be a relevant factor in the development of tinnitus among women of childbearing age.