Shift work has been proposed as a potential influence on the age of menopause in light of previous research suggesting that disruption of the circadian rhythm may impair ovulation and fertility.
Non-traditional work schedules, which can cause lifestyle and sleep disruptions, can be harmful to employees’ health and well-being. According to a new study, the natural menopause may also be delayed, possibly due to circadian rhythm disruptions.
The findings were published in Menopause, a peer-reviewed journal
People in North America and Europe are increasingly accepting of shift work, with an estimated 20% of the employed population working non-traditional or alternating shifts. Shift work poses some health risks as a means of meeting rising demand for goods and services.
Previously, researchers discovered a link between night shift work and an increased risk of coronary events. Type 2 diabetes, peptic ulcers, and cancers such as prostate, colorectal, and breast cancer are all linked health issues.
Despite the fact that shift work has been shown to have a number of negative health effects on working adults, the effects of shift work on middle-aged and older adults have not been extensively studied
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Natural menopause is a major source of concern for middle-aged and older women, as early and late menopause are linked to increased morbidity and mortality. Previously, it was discovered that women’s socioeconomic and environmental factors have a significant impact on their natural menopause ages.
Shift work may have an impact on menopause, as previous research has shown that disrupting circadian rhythms can affect ovulation and fertility.
When the body is exposed to artificial light at night, it produces less melatonin, a hormone that regulates ovulation. The scientific literature has paid little attention to shift work and natural menopause.
This new study, based on secondary data analysis, surveyed over 3,700 premenopausal Canadian women and investigated the relationship between shift work exposure and the age at natural menopause in adults.
According to NAMS medical director Dr. Stephanie Faubion, current rotating shift work has been linked to a later menopause and current night shift work has been linked to an earlier menopause.
“Further research is needed to determine whether these differences in age at menopause are directly related to the effect of circadian rhythm changes on underlying hypothalamic regulation or are due to other sociodemographic factors, such as chronic stress, economic insecurity, and substance use or abuse,” she concluded.
