Menstrual cycle abnormalities among cosmetologists: The Reproductive Outcomes in Salon Employees (ROSE) study

Lisa Gallicchio, Susan Miller, Teresa Greene, Howard Zacur, Jodi A Flaws

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

This study was conducted to examine whether cosmetologists of reproductive age are at increased risk of menstrual cycle abnormalities compared to women of the same age working in other occupations. Participants in the study (450 cosmetologists and 511 noncosmetologists) were recruited through mass mailing of questionnaires. To be included in the study, respondents to the survey had to be between 21 and 55 years of age and not have had a hysterectomy/oophorectomy. The main outcome measures included irregular menstrual cycle length and pain during menstrual period. The results showed no statistically significant associations between being a cosmetologist and having menstrual cycle abnormalities. The observed estimates did not differ when including and excluding women who had ever used oral contraceptives. Thus, the findings of the study suggest that cosmetologists are not at increased risk of menstrual cycle abnormalities. Further studies using detailed salon exposure and work task data in relation to menstrual cycle outcomes should be conducted.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)20-28
Number of pages9
JournalReproductive Sciences
Volume17
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2010

Keywords

  • Chemical exposures
  • Cosmetologists
  • Hairdressers
  • Menstrual cycle
  • Reproductive function

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Obstetrics and Gynecology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Menstrual cycle abnormalities among cosmetologists: The Reproductive Outcomes in Salon Employees (ROSE) study'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this