Menstrual Health and Disorders
Research Guide

Marshall and Tanner (1969) presented data on variations in pubertal changes in girls, establishing normal standards for stages of breast and pubic hair development. These stages typically begin between ages 8 and 13 years in 95% of girls. The work provides mixed longitudinal data for clinical assessment of normal puberty.

Kirschbaum et al. (1999) found that gender, menstrual cycle phase, and oral contraceptive use influence hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis responsiveness to psychosocial stress. Men show stronger hypothalamic drive than women, with differences in salivary-free cortisol levels. These effects occur in healthy subjects.

Frisch and McArthur (1974) determined that a minimal weight for height, corresponding to a fatness index of 22%, is required for the onset or restoration of menstrual cycles in cases of primary or secondary amenorrhea due to undernutrition. Weight loss causes amenorrhea, while weight gain restores cycles. This applies to maintenance or initiation of menstruation.

Harlow et al. (2012) provided an executive summary of the Stages of Reproductive Aging Workshop + 10, offering a comprehensive basis for assessing reproductive aging in research and clinical contexts. The STRAW + 10 system improves study comparability for midlife women and aids clinical decision-making. Knowledge gaps persist in its application.

Kudielka and Kirschbaum (2004) reviewed sex differences in HPA axis responses to stress, noting variations influenced by menstrual cycle and contraceptives. Men generally exhibit higher cortisol responses to psychosocial stressors than women. These findings stem from multiple studies on healthy adults.

Greene and Dalton (1953) defined premenstrual syndrome as a clinical entity with symptoms preceding menstruation. It includes psychological and physical manifestations impacting quality of life. The paper established foundational epidemiological observations.