Funding outcome

Regular exercise has positive health and social benefits for women. Women who exercise a lot are susceptible to missed periods. Missing three or more periods in a row may lead to a loss of estrogen. Research shows that a loss of estrogen may be harmful to a woman's heart health. Some pregnancy complications put women at higher risk of developing heart disease. For example, high blood pressure or diabetes in pregnancy. Heart disease is a top cause of death in women. It is important to investigate if missed periods are related to pregnancy complications. This study will explore the relationship between missed periods and heart-related pregnancy complications. This study will occur in several phases. We will collect data on period and pregnancy history through an online survey. Then, we will identify eligible women to invite to a research lab. In the lab, we will collect two non-invasive measures of heart health. Based on the survey findings, we will complete the last phase. In the last phase, we will invite women to take part in one-to-one interviews on Zoom. We will ask questions to understand women's perceptions of missing periods. This project will involve patient partners. Patient partners will collaborate throughout the different phases of the project. Their input will help guide the project. Patient partners will also collaborate on a strategy to share the research findings.