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Exploring menstrual symptom frequency and impact on people with neurodevelopmental conditions
Laura St John1, Emma Osness2, Anmol Panech2
1Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Azrieli Adult Neurodevelopmental Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada.
Background:
Menstruation can be a physically, mentally and emotionally challenging time, especially for individuals who have neurodevelopmental disabilities. Sensory impairments, emotional dysregulation and challenges communicating pain can make managing menstruation challenging for this population.
Objective:
To describe common symptoms and the effect of symptoms on those with neurodevelopmental disabilities.
Methods:
A mixed methods study design was employed. Qualitative data regarding symptom experience were collected through a semi-structured interview, while quantitative data were collected using the Menstrual Symptom Questionnaire.
Results:
Participants described debilitating cramping which often impacted activities of daily living. Participants also discussed challenges with emotional dysregulation, with many experiencing extreme moods swings and/or depressive episodes during menstruation.
Conclusion:
For the participants in this study, their periods were physically and emotionally taxing and had significant impacts on their day to day lives. Future research is needed to explore why those with neurodevelopmental disabilities may be experiencing such extreme menstrual symptoms.
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