Study suggests that inflammation is behind period pain

Conclusion This study found that middle-aged women with elevated CRP levels were more likely to report symptoms of PMS. The study had a good sample size, and represented a racially diverse and community-based sample of women who could be generalised to the US population of middle-aged women. However, there are a few points to bear in mind: It is unclear whether CRP levels were measured two weeks before a woman's period, so the results may differ, depending on the stage of the menstrual cycle. As the researchers acknowledge, some of the associations observed may have resulted from other exposures, such as anti-inflammatory medications, physical activity and depressive symptoms. It is difficult to imply the direction of effect/causation. A longitudinal study would be needed to better assess whether a rise in CRP levels preceded the onset of PMS, or vice versa. No information was collected on the presence of infection in participants, which could have influenced the increased levels of inflammation. Lastly, the findings cannot be applied to girls or younger women. It is also possible that PMS prevalence and associations could differ between women of different cultures and ethnicities than the US population sampled in this study. The researchers hope that these results will pave the way for future research, as well as potential therapeutic treatments for PMS symptoms through advice about avoidable factors associated with increased inflammation, such as...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Lifestyle/exercise Neurology Medication Source Type: news