Correlation Between Screen Time and Menstrual Irregularities in Women of Reproductive Age

Abstract

Background: Menstrual regularity reflects the functional integrity of the hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian axis and serves as an important indicator of reproductive health. With increasing digital engagement and prolonged daily screen exposure, concerns have been raised regarding possible associations between screen time, stress, sleep patterns, metabolic status, and menstrual function. However, data examining cumulative screen exposure in relation to menstrual irregularity remain limited in Indian settings. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 105 women aged 18–40 years attending a tertiary care center in South India. Data were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire capturing sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, perceived stress, sleep duration, screen exposure patterns, and menstrual history. Screen time was categorized as <2 hours, 2–4 hours, and >4 hours per day. Menstrual irregularity was defined as cycle length <24 days or >38 days, cycle variation ≥8 days (<25 years) or ≥10 days (≥25 years), or bleeding duration >8 days. Associations were assessed using Chi-square testing and univariate logistic regression. Variables significant in univariate analysis were entered into multivariate logistic regression to estimate adjusted odds ratios (AORs). A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The mean age at menarche was 12.9 ± 1.3 years. Menstrual irregularity was reported by 35.2% of participants, with delayed cycles being the most frequent pattern (48.6%). Screen exposure exceeding four hours per day was reported by 38.1% of participants and showed a significant association with menstrual irregularity in univariate analysis (OR 4.50; 95% CI 1.60–12.6; p = 0.004). After adjustment, screen time >4 hours remained statistically associated (AOR 3.80; 95% CI 1.20–12.0; p = 0.021). High perceived stress demonstrated the strongest independent association (AOR 4.60; 95% CI 1.40–15.0; p = 0.012). Overweight/obesity showed a borderline but statistically significant association (AOR 2.40; 95% CI 1.00–6.10; p = 0.048). Short sleep duration and bedtime device use did not retain significance in multivariate analysis. Conclusion: Menstrual irregularity was common in this hospital-based cohort and was statistically associated with prolonged daily screen exposure, high perceived stress, and overweight status. Given the cross-sectional design, these findings indicate associations rather than causation. Larger longitudinal studies incorporating objective exposure assessment and hormonal evaluation are warranted to clarify temporal relationships and underlying mechanisms.