Association Between Menstrual Cycle-Related Hormonal Changes and Self-Perceived Oral Health Symptoms

Abstract

Background: Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can influence oral tissues by altering vascularity, immune reactivity, and salivary composition, leading to transient discomfort such as gingival bleeding, halitosis, and xerostomia. Understanding these cyclical effects is important for preventive oral care in women. Objective: To assess the association between menstrual cycle–related hormonal changes and self-perceived oral health symptoms among female dental professionals in Pakistan, and to determine awareness and behavioral responses to such changes. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted from May to September 2025 among 264 female dental students and practitioners. A validated self-administered questionnaire captured demographic, menstrual, and oral-symptom data. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were applied using SPSS 26.0, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Forty-one percent reported at least one oral symptom, most commonly xerostomia (30.3 %), halitosis (23.1 %), and gingival swelling (19.7 %). Symptom prevalence peaked in the premenstrual phase (24.6 %) and declined post-menstruation (9.5 %) (p = 0.002). Although 79.9 % acknowledged hormonal fluctuations, only 9 % sought dental consultation. Increased hygiene frequency correlated with symptom awareness (p = 0.008). Conclusion: Menstrual-cycle hormonal variations significantly affect perceived oral health. Enhancing awareness, anticipatory hygiene, and gender-sensitive preventive guidance may mitigate cyclic discomfort and improve oral-health self-management.