Impact of Occupational Noise on Menstrual Disorders in Female Workers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
TL;DR
Occupational noise exposure may increase the risk of menstrual disorders among female workers, however, evidence is limited by observational designs, heterogeneous exposure and diagnostic methods, inadequate control for confounders, and a concentration in Chinese textile-related settings.
Abstract
Background: Occupational noise exposure may impair female reproductive health, but evidence on its association with menstrual disorders remains limited. Objective: This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the association between occupational noise exposure and menstrual disorders among female workers, providing evidence for future research and occupational health policy. Methods: Peer-reviewed studies published from January 1, 1995, to December 31, 2024, were searched in PubMed, Web of Science, CNKI, Wanfang, and VIP. Eligible studies examined occupational noise exposure and menstrual disorders in female workers. Data on study characteristics, exposure assessment, diagnostic criteria, menstrual outcomes, and effect estimates were extracted. Study quality was assessed using tools for cross-sectional and cohort studies. Meta-analyses were performed using odds ratios (ORs) or risk ratios (RRs), as appropriate, with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and subgroup analyses were conducted by study design, noise level, diagnostic criteria, and industry type. Results: Twenty-two studies were included in the review, and 18 studies were included in the meta-analysis. All were conducted in China, mostly in textile-related settings. Occupational noise exposure was significantly associated with menstrual disorders among female workers (OR = 3.27, 95% CI: 2.50–4.29, P < 0.01), including dysmenorrhea (RR = 1.76, 95% CI: 1.58–1.95), menstrual cycle irregularities (OR = 3.54, 95% CI: 2.54–4.94), abnormal menstrual duration (OR = 3.29, 95% CI: 1.65–6.59), and abnormal menstrual flow (OR = 2.52, 95% CI: 1.74–3.66). Higher noise levels, especially ≥90 dB(A), longer exposure duration, and nonsteady or impulsive noise may further increase risk. Substantial heterogeneity was observed. Conclusion: Occupational noise exposure may increase the risk of menstrual disorders among female workers. However, evidence is limited by observational designs, heterogeneous exposure and diagnostic methods, inadequate control for confounders, and a concentration in Chinese textile-related settings. Prospective multicenter studies with standardized criteria, objective noise assessment, and rigorous adjustment for confounders are needed.