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Depression increases the likelihood of menstrual pain
Last reviewed: 03.07.2025
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A study published in the journal Briefings in Bioinformatics examined the genetic link between depression and dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) using Mendelian randomization methods, protein interaction analysis, and genetic data.
The Link Between Depression and Dysmenorrhea
Depression, particularly in women, is often accompanied by reproductive disorders such as dysmenorrhea. Previously identified genetic markers shared by the two conditions point to overlapping biological mechanisms. However, until now it has been difficult to establish a causal relationship due to confounding factors.
Mendelian randomization, a method that uses genetic variants to analyze causality, has helped identify causal links between depression and dysmenorrhea.
Main results of the study
Depression Increases Risk of Dysmenorrhea
Genetic markers associated with depression increase the risk of dysmenorrhea by approximately 1.5 times. This association has been confirmed in both European and Asian populations.Insomnia as a mediator
Analyses showed that insomnia was a significant mediator in this association. Other possible factors, such as body mass index (BMI) or ibuprofen use, had no significant effect.Genetic and protein mechanisms
Common genetic variants included the RMBS3 gene, which is associated with ribonucleic acid (RNA) regulation. Key genes such as GRK4 and RNF123, which are involved in signal transduction and cellular regulation, were also identified.Direction of association
Backward analysis showed that dysmenorrhea did not increase the risk of depression, confirming a one-way association: depression promotes the development of dysmenorrhea.
Conclusions
The study highlights the importance of the link between psychological and reproductive health. Depression, through genetic mechanisms and insomnia, may be a causal factor for dysmenorrhea. These findings open up new possibilities for:
- Early diagnosis and screening aimed at identifying vulnerable groups;
- Therapeutic approaches that take into account both psychological and physiological aspects of the condition.
Identification of key genes and biological pathways also provides the basis for the development of new treatments that can effectively address the intersection of psychological and reproductive health.