Journal of Molecular Pharmaceutics & Organic Process Research
Open Access

Diabetes; Ovarian Cycle; Hormonal Changes; Insulin

Introduction

The ovarian cycle

When progesterone and oestrogen levels fall and the body secretes the uterine lining through the vagina, this is referred to as periods [1]. An ovarian cycle typically lasts 3 to 7 days. The time between the first day of one ovarian period and the first day of the following is known as the ovarian cycle. These cycles can differ from person to person. An ovarian cycle typically lasts 28 days however they can last anywhere from 24 and 38 days.

Impact of Diabetes on the ovarian cycle

Diabetes patients may be more likely to have unpredictable or irregular ovarian cycles.

Type 1 diabetes: The regularity of the ovarian cycle or the intensity of a person's periods shouldn't be impacted by type 1 diabetes. Ovarian abnormalities can, however, occasionally accompany this illness. Monthlies can begin at any moment throughout puberty, although the typical age is 12 years. The age at which a person experiences their first period shouldn't be impacted by type 1 diabetes [2]. There have been rare accounts, though, of type 1 diabetes patients experiencing their first periods later. In spite of this, the person shouldn't have any delays in the onset of menstruation as long as they are not underweight and can effectively control their type 1 diabetes [3].

Type 2 diabetes: Diabetes type 2 patients have a higher chance of anovulation. When an ovary fails to deliver an egg into the fallopian tube, this happens. A person won't get their period when this happens. Although people with diabetes are more likely to develop anovulation, not everyone with diabetes will.

Development of diabetes

There could be a connection between type 2 diabetes risk and irregular ovarian cycles. There may be a connection between type 2 diabetes developments and ovarian cycle disorder, according to a big study from 2020 involving 75,546 females [4]. The study discovered that women with long or irregular ovarian periods in their adolescent and adult years had a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes than those with regular ovarian cycles.

The association between irregular ovarian cycles and the onset of type 2 diabetes say the researchers, may be significantly influenced by hormonal imbalances. They continue by saying that protracted ovarian cycles and irregular periods are clear signs of hyperinsulinemia or high insulin levels [5]. This may set off a chain of events that worsens insulin resistance, a condition in which the body struggles to use insulin efficiently to regulate blood sugar levels. Other type 2 diabetes risk variables in this study included: (1) having overweight or obesity, (2) being physically weak and (3) consuming a low quality food.

Explaining blood sugar, insulin and the ovarian cycle. Changes in hormones during the ovarian cycle might impact insulin and blood glucose levels. After ovulation, a woman enters the luteal phase of her ovarian cycle, which is the second half of the cycle [6]. Progesterone levels rise throughout this phase, which it defines. Progesterone can temporarily increase insulin resistance, which medical experts refer to as luteal phase insulin resistance. Blood glucose levels were observed to be higher during the luteal phase of the ovarian cycle in a 2013 study including six females with type 1 diabetes.

At the beginning of their periods, some persons with type 1 diabetes may also have decreased blood sugar levels. Their insulin intake may need to be adjusted accordingly. Following a period, blood glucose levels often recover to normal.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome and diabetic retinopathy

A hormonal imbalance is a feature of the illness known as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Higher amounts of androgen hormones, which can impede ovulation, are found in people with PCOS. The following are some signs of PCOS: (1) Irregular cycles, (2) Weight gain or difficulties reducing weight, (3) Acne, (4) Excess body or facial hair, (5) Thinning hair on the scalp, (6) Darkening of the skin around the neck, breasts, and groyne and (8) Skin tags in the armpits or neck region [7].

The risk of type 2 diabetes is increased in those with PCOS, according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In the event that the person is also overweight or obese, the danger rises even more. More than half of those with PCOS go on to develop type 2 diabetes by the time they are 40 years old, according to the CDC. Those who have PCOS may be able to lower this risk by eating healthfully and exercising frequently to maintain a reasonable weight.

Consult a physician

Ovarian cycles that are predictable and regular serve as crucial health indicators. As a result, if a person experiences irregular ovarian cycles or unusual changes to their ovarian cycle, they should see a doctor [8]. Additionally, if a person notices any of the following, they should see a doctor: (1) bleeding between periods, (2) severe periods with big blood clots lasting 5-7 days, (3) not having a period for more than three months. A person with diabetes who is having trouble managing their blood sugar levels during particular phases of their ovarian cycle might speak with a doctor to learn what to do next. Tracking blood glucose levels over the course of the ovarian cycle can be useful for spotting patterns in a person's general health.

Tips for Therapy

Here are some strategies for treating diabetes and easing menstruation discomfort.

Managing diabetes

People with diabetes need to take action to keep an eye on and manage their blood sugar levels throughout the ovarian period. Regular exercise can assist people with type 2 diabetes whose blood glucose levels are high but who are not using insulin lower their blood sugar levels. Prior to, during, and after menstruation, as well as whenever their blood glucose levels rise, people may need to maintain a regular exercise routine [9].

Before their period, some people may notice an increase in their hunger. They ought to make an effort to stay away from processed carbs to keep their blood glucose levels from rising [10]. Some examples of refined carbs include: white rice, white pasta, white bread, pastries, breakfast cereals, drinks, and meals with added sugars. If someone is on insulin, they may need to adjust their dosage throughout their ovarian cycle in addition to controlling their carbohydrate intake.

Taking care of ovarian symptoms

Period pain and other ovarian symptoms may be reduced using the home treatments listed below:

• Using over-the-counter painkillers.

• Putting a warm compress on the lower back or abdomen.

• Trying to sleep for about 8 hours a reliable source for good sleep every night.

• Reducing stress through breathing exercises or mindfulness practises.

• Continuing a regular exercise routine and a nutritious diet during the ovarian cycle.

Conclusion

Diabetes, whether type 1 or type 2, may increase a person's risk of unpredictable or irregular ovarian cycles. It is significant to remember that a person's diabetes may also be impacted by hormonal changes that take place during the ovarian cycle. Changes in insulin and blood glucose levels might result from hormonal changes. Therefore, managing these changes is a responsibility for those with diabetes. If a person has diabetes and is having erratic or odd ovarian cycles, they should see a doctor. If they are having trouble controlling their blood glucose levels throughout their ovarian cycle, they should also see a doctor.

Acknowledgement

None

Conflict of Interest

None

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