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Santulli P, Bourdon M, Desportes C, Maignien C, Pocate-Cheriet K, Patrat C, Marcellin L, Chapron C. Assessment of the pelvic pain experienced by infertile women is of prime importance for diagnosing endometriosis. J Minim Invasive Gynecol 2024:S1553-4650(24)00315-7. [PMID: 39033906 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmig.2024.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To provide evidence regarding the significance of painful symptoms among women suffering from infertility. DESIGN An observational retrospective cross-sectional study SETTINGS: University hospital-based research center PATIENTS: Infertile patients aged between 18-42 years surgically explored for benign gynecological conditions between 01-2004 and 12-2020. INTERVENTION(S) For each patient, a standardized questionnaire was completed during a face-to-face interview conducted by the surgeon in the month preceding the surgery. Preoperative assessment the pain symptoms was recorded. Pain intensity was assessed with a 10cm visual analog scale (VAS). The pain was considered to be severe when the VAS score was ≥ 7. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Surgery was performed in 839 infertile women. 451 women had severe pelvic pain. Infertile patients with severe pain significantly more often had endometriosis (67.4% versus 30.7% respectively; p<0.001) than infertile women without severe pelvic pain, and especially deep infiltrating lesions (43.2% versus 8.5% respectively; p<0.001). Moreover, these women more often had intestinal endometriosis lesions (28.4% versus 1.8%; p<0.001). After multivariable regression analysis, the presence of endometriosis, irrespective of the phenotype (superficial lesions (OR1.84[1.19-2.86] and/or ovarian endometrioma OR 2.79[1.70-4.59] and/or deep infiltrating endometriosis OR 4.49[2.69-7.51]), and the presence of at least one intestine endometriosis lesion (OR6.49[2.69-7.51] were significantly associated with severe pelvic pain. CONCLUSION Severe pelvic pain is significantly associated with endometriosis and especially deep infiltrating lesions in a population of infertile women. These results demonstrate the importance of thorough questioning regarding pelvic pain symptoms during the initial management of infertile patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Santulli
- Université de Paris Cité, Faculté de Santé, Faculté de Médecine Paris Centre, Paris, France; Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Cité, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique II et de Médecine de la Reproduction, Paris, France; Department "Development, Reproduction and Cancer", Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, Paris, France.
| | - Mathilde Bourdon
- Université de Paris Cité, Faculté de Santé, Faculté de Médecine Paris Centre, Paris, France; Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Cité, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique II et de Médecine de la Reproduction, Paris, France; Department "Development, Reproduction and Cancer", Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, Paris, France
| | - Cassandre Desportes
- Université de Paris Cité, Faculté de Santé, Faculté de Médecine Paris Centre, Paris, France; Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Cité, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique II et de Médecine de la Reproduction, Paris, France
| | - Chloé Maignien
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Cité, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique II et de Médecine de la Reproduction, Paris, France
| | - Khaled Pocate-Cheriet
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Cité, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Service de Biologie de la Reproduction-CECOS, Paris, France
| | - Catherine Patrat
- Université de Paris Cité, Faculté de Santé, Faculté de Médecine Paris Centre, Paris, France; Department "Development, Reproduction and Cancer", Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, Paris, France; Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Cité, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Service de Biologie de la Reproduction-CECOS, Paris, France
| | - Louis Marcellin
- Université de Paris Cité, Faculté de Santé, Faculté de Médecine Paris Centre, Paris, France; Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Cité, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique II et de Médecine de la Reproduction, Paris, France; Department "Development, Reproduction and Cancer", Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, Paris, France
| | - Charles Chapron
- Université de Paris Cité, Faculté de Santé, Faculté de Médecine Paris Centre, Paris, France; Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Cité, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique II et de Médecine de la Reproduction, Paris, France; Department "Development, Reproduction and Cancer", Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, Paris, France
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Chapron C, Marcellin L, Maitrot-Mantelet L, Bourdon M, Maignien C, Parpex G, Santulli P. Questionnaire-based screening of adolescents and young adult women can identify markers associated with endometriosis. Hum Reprod 2024:deae125. [PMID: 38901867 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do adolescents and young adult women (YAW) with histologically proven endometriosis present a specific clinical history? SUMMARY ANSWER Questionnaire screening of adolescents and YAW can identify clinical markers associated with histologically proven endometriosis. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Some validated questionaries can contribute to an earlier endometriosis diagnosis in adults. None of these scores, however, have been validated for adolescents or YAW. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This was an observational cross-sectional study using prospectively recorded data performed between January 2005 and January 2020 in a single university tertiary referral centre for endometriosis diagnosis and management. After a thorough surgical examination of the abdomino-pelvic cavity, women with histologically proven endometriosis were allocated to the endometriosis group, and symptomatic women without evidence of endometriosis were allocated to the endometriosis-free control group. The endometriotic patients were allocated into two sub-groups according to their age: adolescent (≤20 years) and YAW (21-24 years). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Adolescents and YAW ≤24 years of age were operated for a symptomatic benign gynaecological condition with signed informed consent. A standardized questionnaire was prospectively completed in the month before the surgery and included epidemiological data, pelvic pain scores, family history of endometriosis, and symptoms experienced during adolescence. The study searched for correlations by univariate analysis to determine clinical markers of endometriosis in adolescents and YAW compared with endometriosis-free control patients. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Of the 262 study participants, 77 women were adolescents (≤20 years of age) and 185 patients (70.6%) were YAW. The endometriosis group included 118 patients (45.0%) and 144 (55.0%) were assigned to the control group. A family history of endometriosis, absenteeism from school during menstruation, history of fainting spells during menstruation, and prescription of oral contraceptive pills for intense dysmenorrhea were significantly more frequently observed in the endometriotic patients. The prevalence and mean pain scores for dysmenorrhea, deep dyspareunia, non-cyclic chronic pelvic pain and gastrointestinal and lower urinary tract symptoms were significantly greater in the endometriosis group, as was experienced rectal bleeding. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The study was performed in a single referral centre that treats patients with potentially more severe disease. This questionnaire was evaluated on a population of patients with an indication for endometriosis surgery, which can also select patients with more severe disease. Women with asymptomatic endometriosis were not considered in this study. These factors can affect the external validity of this study. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Patient interviews are relevant to the diagnosis of endometriosis in adolescents and YAW. Combined with imaging and clinical examination, this approach will enable earlier diagnosis and treatment, while remaining non-invasive and rapid. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The study received no funding from external sources. There are no conflicts of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Chapron
- Faculté de Santé, Faculté de Médicine Paris Centre, Université Paris-Cité, Paris, France
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France
- Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France
- Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine, Paris, France
- Department "Development, Reproduction and Cancer", Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, Paris, France
| | - Louis Marcellin
- Faculté de Santé, Faculté de Médicine Paris Centre, Université Paris-Cité, Paris, France
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France
- Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France
- Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine, Paris, France
- Department "Development, Reproduction and Cancer", Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, Paris, France
| | - Lorraine Maitrot-Mantelet
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France
- Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France
- Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine, Paris, France
| | - Mathilde Bourdon
- Faculté de Santé, Faculté de Médicine Paris Centre, Université Paris-Cité, Paris, France
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France
- Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France
- Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine, Paris, France
- Department "Development, Reproduction and Cancer", Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, Paris, France
| | - Chloé Maignien
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France
- Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France
- Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine, Paris, France
| | - Guillaume Parpex
- Faculté de Santé, Faculté de Médicine Paris Centre, Université Paris-Cité, Paris, France
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France
- Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France
- Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine, Paris, France
- Department "Development, Reproduction and Cancer", Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, Paris, France
| | - Pietro Santulli
- Faculté de Santé, Faculté de Médicine Paris Centre, Université Paris-Cité, Paris, France
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France
- Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France
- Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine, Paris, France
- Department "Development, Reproduction and Cancer", Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, Paris, France
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Ghandour R, Hammoudeh W, Stigum H, Giacaman R, Fjeld H, Holmboe-Ottesen G. The hidden burden of dysmenorrhea among adolescent girls in Palestine refugee camps: a focus on well-being and academic performance. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:726. [PMID: 38448826 PMCID: PMC10918951 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18219-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) is a condition that may have a profound effect on adolescent girls' health status and well-being. It can impede their engagement in daily activities and hamper their regular school attendance. This study aims to explore the relationship between dysmenorrhea, well-being, and academic performance among adolescent girls living in Palestine refugee camps in the West Bank and Jordan. METHODS We conducted a household survey between June and September 2019, with a total sample of 2737 adolescent girls 15 to 18 years old. Dysmenorrhea severity was assessed using the Working Ability, Location, Intensity, Duration of pain Dysmenorrhea scale (WaLIDD). The WHO-5 scale was used to evaluate the girls' overall well-being. Menstrual academic disruption (MAD) was measured using a self-reported scale. Multiple linear regression models were employed to evaluate the association between dysmenorrhea, well-being, and academic performance. Directed Acyclic Graphs (DAGs) were employed to identify variables for control in regression models. RESULTS The mean dysmenorrhea score was 6.6 ± 2.6, with 37.9% and 41.2% expressing moderate and severe symptoms, respectively. The mean WHO-5 score was 58.7 ± 25.1, and 34.9% reported a low well-being status. The mean MAD score was 3.1 ± 3.3. 26% reported missing school due to dysmenorrhea, 36% said dysmenorrhea impacted their ability to concentrate, and 39% were unable to study for tests, and complete homework. The first regression analysis showed a reduction of 1.45 units in WHO-5 score for each unit increase in dysmenorrhea. The second regression analysis showed a non-linear increase in MAD score for increasing dysmenorrhea. For each dysmenorrhea score less than 4 (mild) there was a modest increase in MAD scores (coefficient 0.08, p-value = 0.006), and for each dysmenorrhea score above 4 there was a stronger increase in MAD scores (coefficient 0.95, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Dysmenorrhea poses significant challenges to the well-being and academic performance of adolescent girls living in Palestine refugee camps. Collaborative efforts and multifaceted approaches are crucial to address dysmenorrhea effectively. This involves research, targeted interventions, culturally sensitive strategies, and fostering a supportive environment that empowers girls to thrive academically and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rula Ghandour
- Institute of Community and Public Health, Birzeit University, Occupied Palestinian territory (oPt) Said Khoury Building for Development Studies, Birzeit, P.O. Box 14, Palestine.
- Department of Community Medicine and Global Health, University of Oslo, Postboks 1130 Blindern, 0318, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Weeam Hammoudeh
- Institute of Community and Public Health, Birzeit University, Occupied Palestinian territory (oPt) Said Khoury Building for Development Studies, Birzeit, P.O. Box 14, Palestine
| | - Hein Stigum
- Department of Community Medicine and Global Health, University of Oslo, Postboks 1130 Blindern, 0318, Oslo, Norway
| | - Rita Giacaman
- Institute of Community and Public Health, Birzeit University, Occupied Palestinian territory (oPt) Said Khoury Building for Development Studies, Birzeit, P.O. Box 14, Palestine
| | - Heidi Fjeld
- Department of Community Medicine and Global Health, University of Oslo, Postboks 1130 Blindern, 0318, Oslo, Norway
| | - Gerd Holmboe-Ottesen
- Department of Community Medicine and Global Health, University of Oslo, Postboks 1130 Blindern, 0318, Oslo, Norway
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Dai Y, Luo H, Zhu L, Yang W, Xiang H, Shi Q, Jin P. Dysmenorrhea pattern in adolescences informing adult endometriosis. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:373. [PMID: 38317119 PMCID: PMC10840152 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-17825-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis (EMs) is a chronic and progressive disease that, if diagnosed late, can lead to infertility and deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE). Dysmenorrhea is the most prominent symptom of EMs. However, limited research exists on the specific correlation between dysmenorrhea patterns and EMs. Early prevention of EMs is essential to effectively manage the progression of the disease, and is best detected during adolescence. Our objective was to associate the development of EMs with dysmenorrhea patterns during adolescence and quantify the risk of adult EMs for adolescent girls, with the aim of supporting primary intervention strategy planning. METHODS This case-control study examined predictors for adult EMs based on dysmenorrhea patterns in adolescents. We collected 1,287 cases of 641 EMs and 646 healthy females regarding their basic demographic information, adolescent menstrual characteristics, adolescent dysmenorrheal patterns, and adolescent lifestyles. Age-matching (1-to-1) was employed to control for the confounding effect of age between the groups. Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) and logistic regression models were utilized to identify predictors for adult EMs. The predictive value of the model was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and the C-index, while Hosmer-Lemeshow Test assessed the goodness of fit of the model. Data from one additional cohort in Shenzhen hospitalized with EMs were used to external validation were analyzed. RESULTS Individuals who always experienced dysmenorrhea had a risk of adult endometriosis 18.874 (OR = 18.874; 95%CI = 10.309-34.555) times higher than those occasional dysmenorrhea, The risk of developing EMs was 5.257 times higher in those who experienced dysmenorrhea more than 12 months after menarche than in those who experienced dysmenorrhea less than 6 months after menarche (OR = 5.257, 95% CI = 3.343-8.266), AUC in the external validation cohort was 0.794(95%CI: 0.741-0.847). We further found that high-intensity physical activity and sun-sensitive skin of burning were influential factors in high-frequency dysmenorrhea. The AUC value for the internal evaluation of the model was 0.812 and the AUC value for the external validation was 0.794. CONCLUSION Our findings revealed that the frequency of dysmenorrhea during adolescence contributed to the development of adult endometriosis. The frequency and onset of dysmenorrhea in adolescence were promising predictors for adult EMs. Both internal and external validation proved the model's good predictive ability. TRIAL REGISTRATION http://www.chictr.org.cn/ , TRN: ChicTR2200060429, date of registration: 2022/06/01, retrospectively registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Dai
- Department of Gynecology, Shenzhen Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Huangjin Luo
- Department of Gynecology, Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Litong Zhu
- Department of Gynecology, Shenzhen Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Weichun Yang
- Department of Gynecology, Shenzhen Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Haishan Xiang
- Department of Gynecology, Shenzhen Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiuling Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ping Jin
- Department of Gynecology, Shenzhen Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
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Vercellini P, Bandini V, Viganò P, Ambruoso D, Cetera GE, Somigliana E. Proposal for targeted, neo-evolutionary-oriented secondary prevention of early-onset endometriosis and adenomyosis. Part II: medical interventions. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:18-34. [PMID: 37951241 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2024] [Indexed: 11/13/2023] Open
Abstract
According to consistent epidemiological data, the slope of the incidence curve of endometriosis rises rapidly and sharply around the age of 25 years. The delay in diagnosis is generally reported to be between 5 and 8 years in adult women, but it appears to be over 10 years in adolescents. If this is true, the actual onset of endometriosis in many young women would be chronologically placed in the early postmenarchal years. Ovulation and menstruation are inflammatory events that, when occurring repeatedly for years, may theoretically favour the early development of endometriosis and adenomyosis. Moreover, repeated acute dysmenorrhoea episodes after menarche may not only be an indicator of ensuing endometriosis or adenomyosis, but may also promote the transition from acute to chronic pelvic pain through central sensitization mechanisms, as well as the onset of chronic overlapping pain conditions. Therefore, secondary prevention aimed at reducing suffering, limiting lesion progression, and preserving future reproductive potential should be focused on the age group that could benefit most from the intervention, i.e. severely symptomatic adolescents. Early-onset endometriosis and adenomyosis should be promptly suspected even when physical and ultrasound findings are negative, and long-term ovulatory suppression may be established until conception seeking. As nowadays this could mean using hormonal therapies for several years, drug safety evaluation is crucial. In adolescents without recognized major contraindications to oestrogens, the use of very low-dose combined oral contraceptives is associated with a marginal increase in the individual absolute risk of thromboembolic events. Oral contraceptives containing oestradiol instead of ethinyl oestradiol may further limit such risk. Oral, subcutaneous, and intramuscular progestogens do not increase the thromboembolic risk, but may interfere with attainment of peak bone mass in young women. Levonorgestrel-releasing intra-uterine devices may be a safe alternative for adolescents, as amenorrhoea is frequently induced without suppression of the ovarian activity. With regard to oncological risk, the net effect of long-term oestrogen-progestogen combinations use is a small reduction in overall cancer risk. Whether surgery should be considered the first-line approach in young women with chronic pelvic pain symptoms seems questionable. Especially when large endometriomas or infiltrating lesions are not detected at pelvic imaging, laparoscopy should be reserved to adolescents who refuse hormonal treatments or in whom first-line medications are not effective, not tolerated, or contraindicated. Diagnostic and therapeutic algorithms, including self-reported outcome measures, for young individuals with a clinical suspicion of early-onset endometriosis or adenomyosis are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Vercellini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Veronica Bandini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
| | - Paola Viganò
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Deborah Ambruoso
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
| | - Giulia Emily Cetera
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Edgardo Somigliana
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
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Mendelson S, Anbukkarasu P, Cassisi JE, Zaman W. Gastrointestinal functioning and menstrual cycle phase in emerging young adult women: a cross-sectional study. BMC Gastroenterol 2023; 23:406. [PMID: 37990300 PMCID: PMC10664285 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-023-03036-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women experience more severe gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms compared to men. The onset of puberty and the menstrual cycle may influence these differences. Additionally, health anxiety is an important construct that has been shown to play a role in increased symptomatology across many medical conditions. Using standardized clinical measures often employed to assess disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBI) we aimed to identify differences of GI functioning across menstrual cycle phases and to evaluate the role of health anxiety in this relationship. METHODS Six hundred three participants completed a survey including functional GI assessment scales (PROMIS-GI®), an abdominal pain scale and map, and a health anxiety measure. They were grouped by menstrual cycle phases (Menses, Follicular, Early-Luteal, and Premenstrual) based on self-reported start date of most recent period. Multivariate analyses of covariance were conducted to identify differences between menstrual cycle phase and scores on the symptom scales. Heath anxiety was included as a covariate in all analyses. RESULTS No significant differences were found between menstrual cycle group and PROMIS-GI scores. Higher GI-symptom and pain levels were found as health anxiety increased. Pain in the hypogastric region of the abdomen was significantly higher during the Menses phase when compared to Early-Luteal and Premenstrual phases. A subset of participants with DGBI diagnoses demonstrated significantly higher GI-symptom severity on several PROMIS-GI scales when compared to matched controls who did not have those diagnoses. In addition, participants with DGBI diagnoses reported significantly greater pain across multiple abdominal regions than their non-diagnosed counterparts. CONCLUSIONS GI symptom levels as measured by the PROMIS-GI scales in otherwise healthy women were not dependent on menstrual cycle phase. Yet, the PROMIS-GI scales were sensitive to symptom differences in women with DGBI diagnoses. Overall, this study demonstrated that the PROMIS-GI measures are unlikely to be affected by gynecological functioning in healthy young women. We argue that the abdominal pain map is an essential addition to classification and diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sivanne Mendelson
- Department of Psychology, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, 32816, USA
| | - Preethashree Anbukkarasu
- College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, 6850 Lake Nona Blvd, Orlando, FL, 32827, USA
| | - Jeffrey E Cassisi
- Department of Psychology, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, 32816, USA.
| | - Widaad Zaman
- Department of Psychology, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, 32816, USA
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Pasquini B, Seravalli V, Vannuccini S, La Torre F, Geppetti P, Iannone L, Benemei S, Petraglia F. Endometriosis and the diagnosis of different forms of migraine: an association with dysmenorrhoea. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 47:71-76. [PMID: 37202318 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Women with endometriosis are frequently affected by headache. How many of these have a clear diagnosis of migraine? Are the different forms of migraine related to the phenotypes and/or characteristics of endometriosis? DESIGN This was a prospective nested case-control study. A consecutive series of 131 women with endometriosis who attended the endometriosis clinic were enrolled and examined for the presence of headache. A headache questionnaire was used to determine the characteristics of the headaches, and the diagnosis of migraine was confirmed by a specialist. The case group included women with endometriosis and a diagnosis of migraine, while the control group included women with only endometriosis. History, symptoms and other comorbidities were collected. A pelvic pain score and associated symptoms were assessed using a visual analogue scale. RESULTS A diagnosis of migraine was made in 53.4% (70/131) of participants. Pure menstrual migraine was reported by 18.6% (13/70), menstrually related migraine by 45.7% (32/70) and non-menstrual migraine by 35.7% (25/70). Dysmenorrhoea and dysuria were significantly more frequent in patients with endometriosis and migraine than in those without migraine (P = 0.03 and P = 0.01). No difference was found for other variables, including age at diagnosis and duration of endometriosis, endometriosis phenotype, the presence of other autoimmune comorbidities or heavy menstrual bleeding. In most patients with migraine (85.7%) the headache symptoms had started years before the diagnosis of endometriosis. CONCLUSION The occurrence of headache in many patients with endometriosis is associated with the presence of different forms of migraine, is related to pain symptoms and often precedes the diagnosis of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedetta Pasquini
- Headache Centre and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Viola Seravalli
- Department of Health Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy.
| | - Silvia Vannuccini
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Francesco La Torre
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Pierangelo Geppetti
- Headache Centre and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy; Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Luigi Iannone
- Headache Centre and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy; Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Silvia Benemei
- Headache Centre and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Felice Petraglia
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florence, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
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8
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Holdsworth-Carson SJ, Menkhorst E, Maybin JA, King A, Girling JE. Cyclic processes in the uterine tubes, endometrium, myometrium, and cervix: pathways and perturbations. Mol Hum Reprod 2023; 29:gaad012. [PMID: 37225518 PMCID: PMC10208902 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaad012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
This review leads the 2023 Call for Papers in MHR: 'Cyclical function of the female reproductive tract' and will outline the complex and fascinating changes that take place in the reproductive tract during the menstrual cycle. We will also explore associated reproductive tract abnormalities that impact or are impacted by the menstrual cycle. Between menarche and menopause, women and people who menstruate living in high-income countries can expect to experience ∼450 menstrual cycles. The primary function of the menstrual cycle is to prepare the reproductive system for pregnancy in the event of fertilization. In the absence of pregnancy, ovarian hormone levels fall, triggering the end of the menstrual cycle and onset of menstruation. We have chosen to exclude the ovaries and focus on the other structures that make up the reproductive tract: uterine tubes, endometrium, myometrium, and cervix, which also functionally change in response to fluctuations in ovarian hormone production across the menstrual cycle. This inaugural paper for the 2023 MHR special collection will discuss our current understanding of the normal physiological processes involved in uterine cyclicity (limited specifically to the uterine tubes, endometrium, myometrium, and cervix) in humans, and other mammals where relevant. We will emphasize where knowledge gaps exist and highlight the impact that reproductive tract and uterine cycle perturbations have on health and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Holdsworth-Carson
- Julia Argyrou Endometriosis Centre, Epworth HealthCare, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne and Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ellen Menkhorst
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne and Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jacqueline A Maybin
- Institute for Regeneration and Repair, MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Anna King
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, NHS Lothian, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Jane E Girling
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne and Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Millischer AE, Santulli P, Da Costa S, Bordonne C, Cazaubon E, Marcellin L, Chapron C. Adolescent endometriosis: prevalence increases with age on magnetic resonance imaging scan. Fertil Steril 2023; 119:626-633. [PMID: 36592649 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.12.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the prevalence on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of ovarian endometrioma (OMA) and deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) in adolescents presenting with severe dysmenorrhea. DESIGN Prospective study. SETTING Clinic. PATIENT(S) A total of 345 adolescents aged 12-20 years referred to the radiologic MRI department unit between September 2019 and June 2020. INTERVENTION(S) Multiplanar pelvic MRI with cine MRI was performed. Data on the medical history with systematic questioning were collected for each patient before the scan. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Data on the endometriosis phenotypes (OMA and/or DIE), distribution of anatomical lesions, and adenomyosis were evaluated and recorded using a dedicated MRI spreadsheet. Myometrial contractions were systematically reported for each case. The data were correlated with the characteristics of the patients and severity of painful symptoms evaluated using a visual analog scale. RESULT(S) The prevalence rates of endometriosis and adenomyosis were 39.3% (121 patients) and 11.4% (35 patients), respectively. Among the adolescents with endometriosis, 25 (20.7%) presented with OMA, and 107 (88.4%) presented with DIE. The odds ratios (confidence intervals) for each pairwise comparison between the age distributions were 2.3 (1.4-3.8) for 15-18 vs. <15 years of age and 3.3 (1.2-8.5) for 18-20 vs. <15 years of age, highlighting a predominance of cases after 18 years of age. Uterine contractions were visualized in 34.4% of cases, with no particular association with endometriosis. No clinical risk factor was identified as being particularly associated with endometriosis. Notably, the visual analog scale score was the same for cases with and without endometriosis. CONCLUSION(S) Severe endometriosis phenotypes (OMA and/or DIE) can be observed in adolescents with intense dysmenorrhea, with a linear increase in prevalence over time resulting in a clear predominance after 18 years of age. Endometriosis in adolescents is a challenging clinical problem with a long delay in diagnosis. Imaging can help reduce this delay in young patients with suggestive symptoms. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT05153512.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Elodie Millischer
- Imagerie Médicale Paris Centre (IMPC) Bachaumont-IFEEN - Ramsay Santé, Centre de Radiologie, Paris, France; Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Paris, France; Pediatric Radiology Department (Prof. Boddaert), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Necker, Paris, France.
| | - Pietro Santulli
- Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Paris, France; Faculté de Médecine Paris Centre, Université de Paris, Faculté de Santé, Paris, France; Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine (Prof. Chapron), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France; Department of "Development, Reproduction and Cancer," Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, Paris, France
| | - Sabrina Da Costa
- Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Paris, France; Pediatric Gynecology Department (Prof. Polak), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Necker, Paris, France
| | - Corinne Bordonne
- Imagerie Médicale Paris Centre (IMPC) Bachaumont-IFEEN - Ramsay Santé, Centre de Radiologie, Paris, France; Department of Radiology (Prof. Dion), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Hôtel Dieu, Paris, France
| | - Elise Cazaubon
- IQVIA statistic Real World Solutions, Biometric, Paris, France
| | - Louis Marcellin
- Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Paris, France; Faculté de Médecine Paris Centre, Université de Paris, Faculté de Santé, Paris, France; Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine (Prof. Chapron), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France; Department of "Development, Reproduction and Cancer," Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, Paris, France
| | - Charles Chapron
- Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre (HUPC), Paris, France; Faculté de Médecine Paris Centre, Université de Paris, Faculté de Santé, Paris, France; Department of Gynecology Obstetrics II and Reproductive Medicine (Prof. Chapron), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Cochin, Paris, France; Department of "Development, Reproduction and Cancer," Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, Paris, France
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Ghandour R, Hammoudeh W, Stigum H, Giacaman R, Fjeld H, Holmboe-Ottesen G. Menstrual characteristics and dysmenorrhea among Palestinian adolescent refugee camp dwellers in the West Bank and Jordan: a cross-sectional study. Arch Public Health 2023; 81:47. [PMID: 36998019 PMCID: PMC10061948 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-023-01059-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women and girls experience menstruation throughout their reproductive years. Normal adolescent menstrual cycles gauge current and future reproductive health. Dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) is the most prevalent menstrual disturbance in adolescents that can be debilitating. This study examines the menstrual characteristics of adolescent girls living in Palestinian refugee camps in the West Bank of the Israeli-occupied Palestinian territory and Jordan, including estimates of dysmenorrhea levels and associated factors. METHODS A household survey of 15 to 18-year-old adolescent girls was conducted. Trained field workers collected data on general menstrual characteristics and dysmenorrhea level using Working ability, Location, Intensity, Days of pain Dysmenorrhea scale (WaLIDD), in addition to demographic, socio-economic, and health characteristics. The link between dysmenorrhea and other participant characteristics was assessed using a multiple linear regression model. Additionally, data on how adolescent girls cope with their menstrual pain was collected. RESULTS 2737 girls participated in the study. Mean age was 16.8 ± 1.1 years. Mean age-at-menarche was 13.1 ± 1.2; mean bleeding duration was 5.3 ± 1.5 days, and mean cycle length was 28.1 ± 6.2 days. Around 6% of participating girls reported heavy menstrual bleeding. High dysmenorrhea levels were reported (96%), with 41% reporting severe symptoms. Higher dysmenorrhea levels were associated with older age, earlier age-at-menarche, longer bleeding durations, heavier menstrual flow, skipping breakfast regularly, and limited physical activity patterns. Eighty nine percent used non-pharmacological approaches to ease menstrual pain and 25% used medications. CONCLUSION The study indicates regular menstrual patterns in terms of length, duration, and intensity of bleeding and a slightly higher age-at-menarche than the global average. However, an alarmingly high prevalence of dysmenorrhea among participants was found that tends to vary with different population characteristics, some of which are modifiable and can be targeted for better menstrual health.This research emphasizes the need for integrated efforts to assist adolescents with menstrual challenges such as dysmenorrhea and irregular periods to achieve informed recommendations and effective actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rula Ghandour
- grid.22532.340000 0004 0575 2412Institute of Community and Public Health, Birzeit University, Said Khoury Building for Development Studies, Birzeit, P.O.Box 14, occupied Palestinian territory
- grid.5510.10000 0004 1936 8921Department of Community Medicine and Global Health, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Weeam Hammoudeh
- grid.22532.340000 0004 0575 2412Institute of Community and Public Health, Birzeit University, Said Khoury Building for Development Studies, Birzeit, P.O.Box 14, occupied Palestinian territory
| | - Hein Stigum
- grid.5510.10000 0004 1936 8921Department of Community Medicine and Global Health, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Rita Giacaman
- grid.22532.340000 0004 0575 2412Institute of Community and Public Health, Birzeit University, Said Khoury Building for Development Studies, Birzeit, P.O.Box 14, occupied Palestinian territory
| | - Heidi Fjeld
- grid.5510.10000 0004 1936 8921Department of Community Medicine and Global Health, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Gerd Holmboe-Ottesen
- grid.5510.10000 0004 1936 8921Department of Community Medicine and Global Health, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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11
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Dixon S, Ranger TA, Burchardt J, Patone M, Snelling AJ, Vincent K, Hippisley-Cox J. Exploring the interface between adolescent dysmenorrhoea and endometriosis: a protocol for a cohort and nested case-control study within the QResearch Database. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e069984. [PMID: 36787972 PMCID: PMC9930556 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-069984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Dysmenorrhoea affects up to 70%-91% of adolescents who menstruate, with approximately one-third experiencing severe symptoms with impacts on education, work and leisure. Dysmenorrhoea can occur without identifiable pathology, but can indicate underlying conditions, including congenital genital tract anomalies or endometriosis. There is a need for evidence about the management and incidence of dysmenorrhoea in primary care, the impact of treatments in adolescence on long-term outcomes and when to consider the possibility of endometriosis in adolescence. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This study aims to improve the evidence base for adolescents presenting to primary care with dysmenorrhoea. It comprises three interlinked studies. Using the QResearch Database, the study population includes all female at birth participants aged 10-19 years any time between 1 January 2000 and 30 June 2021. We will undertake (1) a descriptive study documenting the prevalence of coded dysmenorrhoea in primary care, stratified by demographic variables, reported using descriptive statistics; (2) a prospective open cohort study following an index cohort of all adolescents recorded as attending primary care with dysmenorrhoea and a comparator cohort of five times as many who have not, to determine the HR for a diagnosis of endometriosis, adenomyosis, ongoing menstrual pain or subfertility (considered singly and in combination) anytime during the study period; and (3) a nested case-control study for adolescents diagnosed with endometriosis, using conditional logistic regression, to determine the OR for symptom(s) preceding this diagnosis. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The project has been independently peer reviewed and received ethics approval from the QResearch Scientific Board (reference OX46 under REC 18/EM/0400).In addition to publication in peer-reviewed academic journals, we will use the combined findings to generate a resource and infographic to support shared decision-making about dysmenorrhoea in community health settings. Additionally, the findings will be used to inform a subsequent qualitative study, exploring adolescents' experiences of menstrual pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Dixon
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Tom A Ranger
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Judith Burchardt
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Martina Patone
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Andrew Jhl Snelling
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Katy Vincent
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Julia Hippisley-Cox
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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12
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Caruso S, Cianci A, Iraci Sareri M, Panella M, Caruso G, Cianci S. Randomized study on the effectiveness of nomegestrol acetate plus 17β-estradiol oral contraceptive versus dienogest oral pill in women with suspected endometriosis‑associated chronic pelvic pain. BMC Womens Health 2022; 22:146. [PMID: 35538479 PMCID: PMC9092804 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-022-01737-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To evaluate the effects of a combined oral contraceptive containing 1.5 mg 17b-estradiol (E2) and 2.5 mg nomegestrol acetate (NOMAC) or 2 mg/daily dienogest (DNG) oral progestin on endometriosis-associated chronic pelvic pain (CPP) and on the quality of life (QoL) and sexual function, by a randomized study design.
Methods The E2/NOMAC group and DNG group included 99 and 98 women, respectively. The levels of CPP were measured by the visual analogic scale (VAS). The QoL scores were investigated by the Short Form-36 questionnaire (SF-36). Finally, sexual function was studied using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), while sexual distress was studied by the Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS). The study had 3, 6 and 12-month follow-ups.
Results The intra-group analysis showed an improvement of the VAS score from baseline to the 12-month follow-up in the women of both groups (p < 0.001). The inter-group comparison showed a similar improvement of CPP (p = 0.06). Women on DNG had better SF-36 somatic (p < 0.01) and FSFI scores (p < 0.006) than women on E2/NOMAC at the 6- and 12-month follow-ups. Conclusions The results support the efficacy of both hormonal treatments, even if DNG was more effective than E2/NOMAC in a limited intergroup comparison.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Caruso
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecological Clinic, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy. .,Research Group for Sexology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
| | - Antonio Cianci
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecological Clinic, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy.,Research Group for Sexology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Marco Iraci Sareri
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecological Clinic, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Marco Panella
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecological Clinic, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Stefano Cianci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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