The comparison of changes in fatigue, physical activity and mood in different phases of menstrual cycle

Aims: The aim of this study is to compare fatigue, physical activity and mood among the menstrual, early luteal and follicular phases of menstrual cycle. Methods: A total of 32 women (age: 23±2.91 years) with a regular menstrual cycle (26-32 days) were included in the study. Menstrual phase was determined as the 2nd-4th days of bleeding, while early luteal phase was determined based on the positive result seen on the ClearBlue ovulation kit. Follicular phase, on the other hand, was determined 7 days after the early luteal phase. Fatigue level was measured with the modified BORG scale. Physical activity level was determined with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), and mood was determined with the Beck Depression Scale. Results: It was found that fatigue level increased during the early luteal phase and menstrual phase (p<0.05). Physical activity and mood did not change among the phases (p>0.05). Conclusion: This study revealed that fatigue level increased, while physical activity and mood did not change. Thus, while health professionals plan sports activities for women, they should consider these changes that occur during the menstrual phase.