The severe pain that occurs during periods in women is often ignored considering it normal, but this carelessness can prove costly. The disease called endometriosis is not only causing infertility, but now the risk of developing type-2 diabetes also increases by 46 percent. This shocking information has come to light in an international study led by researchers from America’s George Mason University.

Menstruation and Diabetes Big revelation on women’s health, period pain not only causes infertility but also increases the risk of diabetes by 46%.

Research continued for 25 years on 30 lakh women

In this study published in the international research journal ‘Diabetologia’, the team of scientists analyzed the health data of about 29.3 lakh women of the Utah Population Database between 1996 and 2021. In this study that lasted for 25 years, about 1 lakh women were found to be suffering from endometriosis. After analyzing the data, researchers confirmed that women suffering from endometriosis had a 46% higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes than normal women.

Chronic inflammation and insulin resistance are the main reasons

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue such as the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus, such as in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or pelvic area. These tissues swell and bleed every month with the menstrual cycle, causing chronic inflammation within the body.

According to studies, this chronic inflammation reduces the sensitivity of the body’s cells to insulin. When cells stop responding to insulin, it is called ‘insulin resistance’, which becomes the main cause of type-2 diabetes.

statement of medical experts

What is the advice and next step for women?

Ignoring the symptoms of endometriosis as normal period pain can prove to be serious for health. Health experts have issued instructions for women and doctors:

• Timely checkup: If there is excessive pain during periods, pelvic pain or pain while having sex, then immediately get checked by a gynecologist.
• Regular blood sugar testing: Women with endometriosis should get their fasting blood sugar and HbA1c tested at least once a year.
• Lifestyle modifications: Eating an anti-inflammatory diet and exercising regularly can reduce the risk of insulin resistance.