Type 1 Diabetes in Women Linked to Shorter Reproductive Period

The female reproductive period starts at the onset of menses and lasts till the final menstrual period.

Researchers compared the length of reproductive periods in women diagnosed with type 1 diabetes with women without diabetes to study the effect of diabetes on the female reproductive system. Around 300 women were involved in the study.

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‘Insulin deficiency and hyperglycemia result in a shorter reproductive period’
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Prior research has shown that insulin plays a vital role in the regulation of female reproductive function. However, there was little information on the effect of type 1 diabetes on reproductive function.

Findings showed that women with type 1 diabetes have shorter reproductive periods, delayed menarche, and earlier natural menopause due to insulin deficiency and hyperglycemia.

However, the findings only apply to women diagnosed with type 1 diabetes before reaching the menarche age.

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Menopause is known to be associated with various physiological and metabolic changes. Early natural menopause has also been linked to a higher rate of cardiovascular diseases and mortality.

Dr. Stephanie Faubion, NAMS medical director, commented, "These women are not only at risk for premature ovarian aging because of early-onset type 1 diabetes, but they are also at increased risk for cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and early mortality because of early natural menopause. Understanding these risks and targeting appropriate risk-reducing strategies are key to optimizing the health and quality of life of these women.”

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The researchers recommend future research to determine modifiable factors contributing to early menopause for improving the reproductive health of diabetic women.

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Source-Medindia