A COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT OF HEMATOLOGICAL PARAMETERS BEFORE AND DURING MENSTRUATION AMONG FEMALE STUDENT OF SA’ADU ZUNGUR UNIVERSITY
Abstract
The menstrual cycle is a complex physiological process characterized by rhythmic hormonal fluctuations that induce systemic changes, including variations in hematological parameters and cardiovascular dynamics. The potential for these cyclical changes to impact diagnostic interpretations, they are often overlooked in clinical practice. This study aimed to conduct a comparative assessment of the effects of the pre-menstrual and menstrual phases on full blood count (FBC) parameters and blood pressure in female students of Bauchi State Gadau. A comparative longitudinal study design was employed, with each of the ten (10) participants serving as their own control. Venous blood samples (RBC, WBC, HGB, PCV, Platelets) analysis and blood pressure measurements were collected from each participant during two distinct phases: the premenstrual (luteal) phase and the menstrual phase (within the first 2-3 days of bleeding). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired samples t-tests. The results indicated that there were no statistically significant differences in the mean values of Red Blood Cell count, White Blood Cell count, Hemoglobin and Packed Cell Volume between the two phases (p > 0.05). However, Platelet count demonstrated a significant increase during the menstrual phase compared to the pre-menstrual phase (p = 0.048). For blood pressure, no significant differences were found in the mean systolic and diastolic readings between the phases, although individual variations were observed. In conclusion, while most hematological parameters remain stable, the significant increase in platelet count during menstruation may represent a physiological adaptation to facilitate hemostasis. The absence of significant mean changes in blood pressure suggests that for healthy females, the menstrual cycle may not induce clinically significant alterations. These findings underscore the importance of considering the menstrual phase in clinical diagnostics to avoid misinterpretation of results and to inform personalized patient management.
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