The effects of menstrual cycle on balance and postural control i̇n healthy young adults

Objective: The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of the menstrual cycle on balance and postural control in healthy young adults. Method: The study was carried out with 66 volunteer women who is studying at Dokuz Eylül University Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation School. Menstrual Cycle Order Questionnaire (MSDA) surveys were used to determine the menstrual cycle disposition and duration, Premenstrual Syndrome Questionnaire (PSQ) to inquire about the existence of premenstrual syndrome, Menstrual Attitude Questionnaire (MAQ) to evaluate menstrual attitudes, and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) to question physical activity level. Balance and postural sway were evaluated with the "Balance Master" device. Using the Tekscan and MatScan devices, changes in the sub-sole pressure during functional reach were recorded. All evaluations repeated twice in the preovulatory period and postovulatory period. 'T and Wilcoxan Signed Ranks Tests' were used in dependent groups to determine whether there was a statistically significant difference between the balance and postural control parameters between the preovulatory and postovulatory phases of the menstrual cycle. The relationship between balance and postural control scores in both preovulatory and postovulatory periods was tested with 'Spearman Correlation Analysis'. Results: When the preovulatory period and postovulatory period evaluations were compared, the weight bearing percentage of the nondominate extremity increased (p=0.013) and the weight bearing percentage of the dominant extremity decreased in the postovulatory period (p=0.012). There was an increase in functional reach in the postovulatory period (p=0.00). In the static posture with eyes open and closed, there was a decrease in the speed of gravity swing in the postovulatory period (p=0.355, p=0,183). Conclusion: The balance and postural sway of healthy young women are can be affected by the menstrual cycle. During the preovulatory period, women may be at greater risk of affecting balance and postural sway, but more studies are needed. Keywords: Menstrual cycle, balance, postural control