Stress-induced menstrual disorders in adolescents during the Ukrainian war: cross-sectional study

Abstract

Objective: The objective was to investigate the peculiarities of menstrual cycle changes in teenagers exposed to a devastating war for an extended period. Methods: A cross-sectional study of 120 Ukrainian girls aged 9–18 asked to complete a survey about their menstrual cycle status 3–6 months after the war began. Other examination methods used included anthropometry, laboratory, and instrumental studies. Results: The frequency of menstrual cycle disorders in the study group was 65.8% (n=79). The following menstrual cycle disorders were most frequently reported; dysmenorrhea 45.6% (n=36), excessive menstruation during puberty 27.8% (n=22), and secondary amenorrhea 26.6% (n=21). The 52.5% (n=63) of those examined had pathological menarche. The 81.7% (n=63) of respondents reported a change in eating habits in the previous few months. The 61.9% (n=39) of these children had dyshormonal disorders or met the criteria for metabolic syndrome. Conclusion: Adolescent females under stress warrant a quick assessment of their psychoemotional and metabolic conditions. The protection from future menstruation and reproductive illnesses depends on this tactic. By diagnosing these conditions promptly and well-managed, adolescent females may maintain good physical and emotional health.