Determining the Relationship Between Smoking Behaviors and Menstrual Irregularity in Women

Abstract Purpose Smoking rates are increasing among women. Considering that menstrual irregularities are also common, it is thought that there is a need for studies examining the relationship between menstrual irregularities and smoking in women of reproductive age. Therefore, this study was carried out to determine the relationship between women's smoking behaviors and menstrual irregularities. Methods Between November and December 2022, the study was done among women aged 15 to 49 in Turkey. The data were collected using the Personal Information Form and the Fagerstrom test for Nicotine Dependence. Data collection tools were converted online via Google Forms, and the link was shared with the participants via e-mail and the WhatsApp messenger application. This cross-sectional and relational study was conducted with a total of 630 women. Descriptive statistics an independent t-test, an ANOVA, and Post hoc analyses were used for the statistical analysis of the study. In statistical analyses, p < 0.05 was accepted as significant. Results The study showed that the mean total nicotine dependence of women was 3,06 ± 2,47, and 11% were highly nicotine dependent. The regression analysis showed that the relationship between the nicotine dependence total score and menstrual pain severity was significant (F = 7,168; p = 0,008 < 0.05). The nicotine dependence total score increased the level of menstrual pain severity (ß=0,106). Conclusion This study demonstrated that smoking may be a risk factor for menstrual irregularities and that the level of nicotine dependency affects the severity of dysmenorrhea.