Assessment of serum calcium and magnesium levels in subjects with pre-menstrual syndrome

Abstract

Women's health is one of the main goals of social and economic development of societies; therefore, problems and diseases compromising women's physical and mental health, such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS), are among health priorities.To estimate and compare the serum levels of calcium and magnesium in subjects with pre-menstrual syndrome and subjects without premenstrual syndrome during pre-and post-menstrual phases.: Healthy women (intern students, hospital staff, non-teaching staff, class 3 and class 4 staff) in the age group of 18-26 years having regular menstrual cycles for the past 6 months were included based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. PMS was diagnosed based on ACOG criteria. 5 mL of venous blood sample was collected in red stoppered plain tube and used for estimation of serum calcium and magnesium levels during premenstrual phase of menstrual cycle. We found that there was no significant difference in the serum calcium levels between cases and controls, but there was significant difference in serum magnesium levels between the cases and controls.Several factors like culture, socioeconomic status, cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, exercise, dietary habits, age of menarche etc. have also been implicated. Prolonged stress exposure is believed to lead to persistent malfunctions of neuroendocrine system and cause PMS. Lack of micronutrients and certain hormonal agents and are also implicated in the development of PMS. We strongly recommend Lifestyle modifications which include mind-body approaches, aerobic exercise, and supplementation with vitamins, minerals, and complex carbohydrates. Early nutritional supplementation of with the diet rich in these minerals will be effective as preventive and therapeutic strategy.