Comparative Analysis of Blood Pressure Variations during the Follicular and Luteal Phases of the Menstrual Cycle among Teachers with PMS

Abstract

Background: Blood pressure (BP) naturally fluctuates throughout the menstrual cycle due to hormonal changes, and these variations may contribute to worsening symptoms in women with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Teachers were chosen for this study because their profession is demanding—both emotionally and physically with rigid schedules that might influence BP regulation. Given the vital role educators play in society, understanding these fluctuations could help guide health interventions to better support their well-being. Aim: This study aimed to compare BP variations between the follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle in women with PMS and explore how PMS severity relates to these changes. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 100 teachers diagnosed with PMS. Baseline characteristics such as age, menstrual history, and dietary habits were recorded. BP was measured during the follicular (phase 1) and luteal (phase 2) phases, and the relationship between PMS severity and BP changes was analyzed using paired t-tests and chi-square tests. Results: Among the participants, 43% were aged 33–37 years, 75% were married, and 86% reported a family history of PMS. The mean systolic BP (SBP) increased from 117.50 mmHg (SD = 4.42) in the follicular phase to 129.02 mmHg (SD = 4.80) in the luteal phase (p < 0.001). Similarly, mean diastolic BP (DBP) rose from 79.84 mmHg (SD = 2.69) to 85.38 mmHg (SD = 3.10) (p < 0.001). Higher PMS severity in the luteal phase was linked to increased SBP (r = 0.809, p < 0.001) and DBP (r = 0.633, p < 0.001). Chi-square analysis also showed a significant association between PMS severity and hypertensive BP levels in the luteal phase (SBP: χ² = 47.395, df = 4, p < 0.001; DBP: χ² = 13.880, df = 4, p = 0.008). Conclusion: BP levels were notably higher during the luteal phase, and this increase was more pronounced in women experiencing severe PMS symptoms. These findings highlight the need to consider BP fluctuations when addressing PMS-related distress in working women. Future research could explore strategies to help mitigate these effects and promote better health outcomes.