Systematic review, 2007
Does light exposure affect menstrual cycles through melatonin?
Yes, there is evidence that light exposure affects menstrual cycles and symptoms through melatonin secretion. Women with bipolar disorder or polycystic ovary syndrome may be especially vulnerable.
What they did
Systematic review examining whether light exposure and melatonin secretion influence menstrual cycle function and symptoms including irregular cycles and disordered ovulation.
What they found
Evidence showed a relationship between light exposure, melatonin secretion, and irregular menstrual cycles, menstrual cycle symptoms, and disordered ovarian function. Women with bipolar disorder or polycystic ovary syndrome showed greater vulnerability to light-dark exposure effects.
What it means for you
Light exposure may be a modifiable factor affecting menstrual problems, especially for women with certain conditions like bipolar disorder or PCOS. Understanding this could lead to new treatments for menstrual disorders. However, this is a review of existing knowledge, not new research, and exact mechanisms remain unclear.
About the study
- Original title
- Light exposure, melatonin secretion, and menstrual cycle parameters: an integrative review
- Authors
- Barron ML
- Journal
- Biological research for nursing
- Year
- 2007
- Study design
- Systematic review
- What was tested
- Light exposure and darkness
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1177/1099800407303337
Topics
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