Key result
Luteal phase linked to higher LVMi in physically active females versus follicular and ovulation phases.
Why the study?
The impact of menstrual phases on left ventricular structure and function using 3D echocardiography and resting ECG in healthy, eumenorrheic, and physically active females had not been investigated.
Does the menstrual cycle phase affect 3D echocardiographic LV structure and function and ECG indices in healthy physically active females?
Observational (n=16)
Does the menstrual cycle phase affect 3D echocardiographic LV structure and function and ECG indices in healthy physically active females?
In physically active females, LV mass index is slightly but significantly higher during the luteal phase, which should be considered during serial clinical or research echocardiographic assessments.
Answers are grounded in this paper and cite their sources.
Cycle phase may warrant consideration in serial echoes for active females; leaves open effects on outcomes or reference values.
Background: The impact of the menstrual phases on left ventricular (LV) structure and function using 3D echocardiography and resting electrocardiogram (ECG) in healthy, eumenorrheic, and physically active females has not been investigated. Methods: sixteen females (20 y ± 2) underwent 3D echocardiography and an ECG at three time points in the menstrual cycle phases (follicular, ovulation, luteal). LV end-diastolic volume (LVEDVi), LV ejection fraction (LVEF), LV mass allometrically indexed to height2.7 (LVMi), torsion, and global longitudinal, circumferential, and radial strain (GLS, GCS, and GRS) were evaluated. ECG data of the P and QRS waves were presented as well as axis deviation, chamber enlargement, and any rhythm abnormalities. Results: LVMi was significantly higher in the luteal phase (36.4 g/m2.7 ± 3.3) compared to the follicular (35.0 g/m2.7 ± 3.7) and ovulation (34.7 g/m2.7 ± 4.3) phases (p = 0.026). There were no differences in other indices of LV structure and function or ECG variables across all phases of the menstrual cycle or evidence of arrhythmia. Conclusions: In physically active females, there is a small but significantly higher LVMi associated with the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle with no concomitant change in LV function or ECG parameters. These findings are important to consider when conducting clinical or research serial assessments.
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Morrison et al. (2023) conducted an observational in Healthy, eumenorrheic, and physically active females (n=16). Menstrual cycle phases (follicular, ovulation, luteal) vs. Within-subject comparison across phases was evaluated on Left ventricular mass index (LVMi) (p=0.026). The luteal phase in physically active females was associated with a higher left ventricular mass index vs follicular and ovulation phases.
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