IJSR International Journal of Scientific Research 2277 - 8179 Indian Society for Health and Advanced Research ijsr-9-8-26402 Original Research Paper Sympathetic Function Tests during Various Phases of Menstrual Cycle M. Bhatkar Dr. August 2020 9 8 01 02 ABSTRACT

Background : Menstruation is governed by tightly orchestrated changes in the levels of ovarian estrogen and progesterone, which produce varying responses in diverse tissues and organs. Studies suggest that all types of hormonal changes and a regular fluctuation in numerous functions affecting all body systems in women is the result of disturbed autonomic nervous system (ANS). Thus this study was designed to study sympathetic function tests during various phases of menstrual cycle. Materials & methods : The present study was a cross sectional type of study involving 50 female subjects. Two sympathetic function tests i.e. Cold Pressor Test (CPT) and Sustained Handgrip Test (SHG) were included in the study. Sympathetic function tests were carried out during each of the three phases of the menstrual cycle. Statistical analysis was done with one way ANOVA and paired ‘t’ test. Result : Cold pressor test and sustained hand grip tests showed that systolic and diastolic blood pressures were greater during secretory phase as compared to other phases of menstrual cycle and the difference was statistically significant by ANOVA test and paired T test. Conclusion : Our findings indicate a higher sympathetic activity in secretory phase as compared to other phases.