Micronutrient deficiency in menstrual dysfunction among women of reproductive age

Abstract

Objective. To determine whether inorganic menstrual dysfunction (MD) is associated with magnesium, iron and vitamin D deficiency in women of reproductive age. Materials and methods. The study group I consisted of 50 women with MD: dysmenorrhea (16 women), oligomenorrhea (12 women), functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (3 patients) and acyclic abnormal uterine bleeding (19 women), the comparison group II was composed of 30 patients with normal menstrual function. The methods of study included history taking using a questionnaire to detect the signs of magnesium deficiency, physical examination, echography of pelvic organs, full blood count, blood tests to determine the concentration of magnesium, vitamin D and ferritin as well as consulting a therapeutist. Results. Magnesium deficiency was registered significantly more often in patients with MD (93.0 3.6 %, 73.0 8.1 %, respectively; p 0.05). The most typical signs of magnesium deficiency were the central symptoms: headache (58.0 7.1 %, 22.0 7.6 %; p 0.001), irritability (53.0 7.1 %, 26.0 8.0 %; p 0.01), dyssomnia (45.0 7.0 %, 17.0 6.9 %; p 0.01), dizziness (42.5 7.0 %, 22.0 7.6 %; p 0.05), a decrease in libido (34.0 6.7 %, 13.0 6.1 %; p 0.05), as well as trophic disturbances including hair loss (38.0 6.9 %, 13.0 6.9 %; p 0.01). Similar findings were obtained when we studied the iron supply: the frequency of latent iron deficiency (according to ferritin concentration) was 77.0 5.9 and 35.7 8.4 % respectively; p 0.001. Deficiency or insufficient supply of 25(ОH)D was registered significantly more often in women with MD in comparison with healthy women (45.0 7.0 %, 20.0 7.3 %; p 0.05). Conclusions. In summary, determination of the level of micronutrients and adequate compensation of their deficiency can be important factors in physiological correction of endocrine imbalance leading to functional disorders in the reproductive system and a decrease in fertility.