Survey study, 1999
How do menstrual and premenstrual symptoms affect female military cadets?
Almost all cadets' menstrual cycles changed during their first year. Many reported symptoms interfered with physical activities. Many also struggled to access, change, and dispose of menstrual products.
What they did
158 freshman female cadets at West Point were surveyed in July 1991 about their menstruation and premenstrual symptoms before entering. In May 1992, 83 cadets completed a follow-up survey about cycle changes, symptom interference, and problems managing menstrual products.
What they found
91% reported changes in menstruation during the year, most commonly becoming less regular, less frequent, shorter, lighter, and less crampy. Menstrual and premenstrual symptoms interfered with physical activities (66% and 61%) more than academic (51% and 46%) or military activities (40% and 47%). 63% struggled changing products, 52% obtaining them, 39% disposing.
What it means for you
Female cadets experience major cycle changes during the physical and mental stress of their first year. Symptoms significantly affect physical training. Access to menstrual products is a practical problem in military settings. The main limit is lack of comparison to similar women outside the military.
83
cadets with follow-up survey
91%
with cycle changes during year
66%
with menstrual symptom interference in physical activities
About the study
- Original title
- Menstrual and premenstrual issues in female military cadets: a unique population with significant concerns
- Authors
- Schneider MB, Fisher M, Friedman SB et al.
- Journal
- Journal of pediatric and adolescent gynecology
- Year
- 1999
- Study design
- Survey study
- Participants
- 83
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1016/s1083-3188(99)00025-x
Topics
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