Physical activity and menstrual cycle regularity among young women: A cross-sectional study
DOI: https://doi.org/10.33024/minh.v9i6.3897
Menstrual Cycle Physical Activity Teenager
Abstract
Background: Globally, around 14–25% of women have irregular menstrual cycles, characterized by heavier or lighter periods, or cycle lengths exceeding 35 days or shorter than 21 days. Irregular menstrual cycles have been linked to various diseases and medical conditions. Various factors can influence menstrual cycle, including age, body mass index, physical activity, diet, medical status, and overall lifestyle. WHO recommendation for adults aged 18-64 years should do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week. Excessive exercise can disrupt the balance of estrogen and progesterone and lead to irregular periods.
Purpose: To assess the influence of physical activity and menstrual cycle among female adolescent.
Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted to 111 students who met the criteria, such as had a record of the first day of her menstrual period since December 2024 until February 2025 and did not have reproductive system disorders. The physical activity measured by PAQ-A questionnaire, while menstruation cycle was collected by questionnaire. The data were analysed using Spearman test.
Results: Most of respondents were 19 years old (54.1%), had light physical activity (66.7%), and got regular menstrual cycle (58.6%). Spearman's rank correlation showed a significant negative association (ρ = −0.558, p < 0.001).
Conclusion: There was an association between physical activity with menstrual cycle.
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