Medical Health Encyclopedia

Diabetes . The menstrual cycle may also affect diabetes, a disease that is defined by low levels of insulin or resistance to this hormone that is critical for efficient use of sugar (glucose) in the body. High estrogen and progesterone levels, which occur in the luteal phase, affect insulin, although their effects vary widely among individuals. In one study of women with insulin-dependent diabetes, 27% experienced higher blood sugar levels and 12% lower levels in the week before their period than at other times in the cycle. Some experts argue, however, that these blood sugar changes are due to cravings and dietary responses to PMS, not to insulin changes.

Islets of Langerhans contain beta cells and are located within the pancreas. Beta cells produce insulin which is needed to metabolize glucose within the body.

Asthma. It has long been known that asthma often worsens during the premenstrual period, with one study estimated that 40% of women with asthma are affected at that time. Some research has suggested that during the premenstrual period there is increased activity of a combination of asthma-inducing effects, including lower resistance to stress and infections and increased hyperreactivity in the airways of the lungs.

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Other Disorders. Many other chronic disorders may be exacerbated during the premenstrual phase, including epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, inflammatory bowel disease, and irritable bowel syndrome. Women are also more prone to seasickness in the premenstrual phase.