Working conditions associated with ovarian cycle in a medical center nurses: A Taiwan study

Aim:  Decreased basal body temperature measurements predict ovulation with an accuracy of 74%. The anovulatory cycle exhibits an ovarian monophasic pattern. This study evaluated the relationship between ovarian cycle pattern and sociodemographic characteristics, menstrual history and work characteristics of nurses in a Taiwan medical center. Methods:  Of 200 nurses recruited, 151 were analyzed. Each subject completed questionnaires and provided life recordings and daily basal body temperature measurements during the 14-week study. Results:  The analytical results demonstrated that work place (P = 0.014) and work shift (P = 0.048) are significantly related to ovarian cycle pattern. Nurses who worked in emergent care units and wards had a higher prevalence of irregular ovarian cycle pattern. Approximately 53% of nurses who worked rotating shifts exhibited irregular ovarian cycle pattern. Conclusions:  Nurses who either had rotating shift work or worked in emergent care units and wards should be concerned with their own ovarian cycle pattern for their health.