Actively Recruiting
Effects of Menstrual Cycle Phases on Plantar Flexor Neuromechanical Properties and Achilles Tendon Mechanical Properties of Eumenorrheic Women and Hormonal Contraception Users
Led by Marco Aurélio Vaz, PhD · Updated on 2024-06-10
40
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
16 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are investigating how the menstrual cycle affects the properties of the plantar flexor muscles and Achilles tendon in women. The study focuses on eumenorrheic women with regular menstrual cycles and women using combined oral hormonal contraception. It aims to understand changes in tendon and muscle structure, mechanics, and function during different menstrual phases, as hormone fluctuations may influence these neuromechanical properties and impact physical performance and rehabilitation planning. The study observes four groups: physically active and sedentary eumenorrheic women, and physically active and sedentary women using combined oral contraceptives containing estrogen and progesterone. The research involves monitoring the mechanical properties of the Achilles tendon during different menstrual cycle phases. Assessments occur at the beginning, middle, and end of one menstrual cycle lasting 28 to 30 days. Participants will undergo multiple evaluations including measurements of maximal voluntary isometric contraction, Achilles tendon stiffness, tendon strain, ankle functionality, blood hormone levels, and transvaginal ultrasound. These assessments are repeated at three specific times in the cycle to track changes. The study also monitors safety criteria like vaccination status and excludes women with certain health conditions. The total study duration aligns with one menstrual cycle per participant, with detailed neuromechanical and functional data collected throughout.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Effects of the Menstrual Cycle on Triceps Surae Properties in Women
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Being eumenorrheic with a regular menstrual cycle lasting between 21 and 35 days during the last 6 months prior to study participation (for eumenorrheic women).
- Body Mass Index between 20 and 25 kg/m2.
- Normal ankle function and range of motion.
- No use of hormonal contraception or hormone supplements for at least 6 months prior to the study (for eumenorrheic women).
- No complaints of pain or history of lower limb injury.
- Completed COVID-19 vaccination.
- For physically active groups, regular physical exercise at least 3 times a week for the past 6 months.
- For sedentary groups, no regular physical exercise in the last 6 months.
- Use of combined oral hormonal contraception with estrogen and progesterone for at least 6 months (for oral contraceptive users).
- No use of other hormone supplements for at least 6 months prior to the study (for contraceptive users).
You will not qualify if you...
- Health problems that contraindicate maximal effort exercise.
- Anovulatory cycles or luteal phase deficiency.
- Early menopause.
- Pregnancy or lactation.
- Oligomenorrhea (menstrual cycles longer than 35 days or delayed menstruation).
- Hypothalamic amenorrhea.
- Female smokers.
- Metabolic syndrome.
- Use of hormonal contraceptive methods other than combined oral contraceptives, such as adhesive, injectable, intrauterine devices, implants, vaginal rings, or progesterone-only methods.
- Not meeting the inclusion criteria.
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - Approximately 1 menstrual cycle (28 to 30 days)
Participants undergo assessments to evaluate the neuromechanical properties of the Achilles tendon during different phases of the menstrual cycle.
3 visits at the beginning (1-4 days), middle (10-14 days), and end (22-26 days) of the menstrual cycle
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
Marco Aurelio Vaz
Porto Alegre, Brazil
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
M
Marco Vaz
How is the study designed?
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Masking
N/A
Allocation
N/A
Model
N/A
Primary Purpose
N/A
Number of Arms
4
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