Study Links Depression to Menstrual Pain, Highlighting the Need for Holistic Healthcare

Study Links Depression to Menstrual Pain, Highlighting the Need for Holistic Healthcare

(IN BRIEF) A study by researchers from China and the UK has identified a link between depression and menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea), suggesting depression may cause rather than result from period pain. Using Mendelian randomisation, the team analyzed genetic data from over 600,000 individuals and found that sleeplessness, often associated with depression, may exacerbate menstrual pain. The findings emphasize the importance of addressing mental health in managing reproductive health issues and highlight the potential for personalized treatment approaches. The research, a collaboration between Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University and the University of Liverpool, advocates for holistic healthcare to improve outcomes for individuals affected by these conditions.

(PRESS RELEASE) LIVERPOOL, 27-Nov-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — A collaborative study conducted by researchers in China and the UK has revealed a significant connection between depression and menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea), suggesting that depression may contribute to the development of this condition. Published in Briefings in Bioinformatics, the study used advanced genetic analysis techniques to explore the relationship, uncovering important insights that could influence how these conditions are treated.

Led by Shuhe Liu, a PhD student at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) and the University of Liverpool, the team employed Mendelian randomisation to analyze genetic variations. Liu explains, “Our findings provide preliminary evidence that depression could be a cause, rather than a consequence, of dysmenorrhea, as we found no evidence that period pain increases the risk of depression.”

The study analyzed data from approximately 600,000 individuals of European ancestry and 8,000 individuals from East Asia, demonstrating a strong link between depression and menstrual pain across both populations. Researchers also investigated the role of sleeplessness, a common symptom of depression, as a mediator in the relationship.

“Increased sleep disturbances appear to exacerbate menstrual pain,” Liu noted. “Addressing sleep issues may be key to managing both conditions, although further research is needed to fully understand the connections between these factors.”

The study underscores the importance of integrating mental health considerations into the treatment of reproductive health issues. Liu stressed, “Mental health is often overlooked when treating conditions like period pain. Our research highlights the need for mental health screenings for individuals with severe menstrual pain, which could lead to more personalized treatments, improved healthcare, and reduced stigma around these conditions.”

The findings also emphasize the broader relationship between neurological and physical health. “By better understanding these links, we can make a real difference for the millions of people affected by period pain and mental health challenges,” Liu added.

The research, a collaborative effort between XJTLU and the University of Liverpool, was supervised by Professor John Moraros and Dr. Zhen Wei from XJTLU, along with Dr. Dan Carr from Liverpool. Dr. Carr praised the partnership, stating, “This study is a prime example of the impactful research that stems from the collaboration between our institutions. It sheds new light on the relationship between depression and period pain, with the potential to improve treatments and outcomes for patients.”

This study reinforces the need for a holistic approach to healthcare, addressing both mental and physical health to better serve patients experiencing complex conditions like dysmenorrhea and depression.

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SOURCE: University of Liverpool