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Survey study, 2016

What menstrual health problems do young women with Angelman syndrome experience?

Menstrual and premenstrual symptoms were common but infrequently caused problems at home or school. Girls with AS had significant challenges with menstrual hygiene and needed full assistance managing it.

Early or limited evidence Caregivers of young women with Angelman syndrome aged 12-25 years

What they did

Web-based survey of caregivers of young women aged 12-25 years with Angelman syndrome using an institutional review board-approved questionnaire.

What they found

Menstrual and premenstrual symptoms were common but infrequently caused problems at home or school. Less than half used hormones to control flow. Of those who used hormones, 75% used them continuously. Girls with seizures were more likely to use hormonal methods. Almost all girls with AS required full assistance with menstrual hygiene.

What it means for you

For young women with severe neurodevelopmental disabilities, menstruation does not significantly disrupt daily life despite hygiene challenges. The study surveyed caregivers rather than the women themselves, and used convenience sampling, so results may not represent all women with AS.

<50%

Used hormones to control menstrual flow

75%

Of hormone users, percentage using continuously

About the study

Original title
The Effect of Menstrual Issues on Young Women with Angelman Syndrome
Authors
Kaskowitz AP, Dendrinos M, Murray PJ et al.
Journal
Journal of pediatric and adolescent gynecology
Year
2016
Study design
Survey study
What was tested
None
Open access
Yes

Topics