The relationship between IGF1, IGFBP3, BMI and dysmenorrhea following eight weeks of combined training (resistance and aerobic) in obese women

Dysmenorrhea is influenced by hormonal imbalances and weight fluctuations. Physical activity plays a crucial role in managing dysmenorrhea. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between IGF1, IGFBP3, BMI, and dysmenorrhea following eight weeks of combined exercise (resistance and aerobic) in obese women.

A quasi-experimental study was conducted on 24 inactive obese women aged 25 to 37 years, having a BMI of 30 to 35 kg/m2. Participants were randomly assigned to either a combined exercise group (resistance and aerobic) or a control group. The combined training regimen included resistance exercises at 67-80% of maximum strength and aerobic exercises at 60-85% of maximum heart rate, conducted three days a week for eight weeks. Blood samples were collected before and after the training period, and IGF1 and IGFBP3 levels were measured. Dysmenorrhea symptoms were assessed using the Menstrual Disorders Questionnaire (MDQ).

Pearson correlation analysis revealed no significant relationship between IGF1 and IGFBP3 levels in obese women (P≥0.73, r=0.05). There was no significant relationship between IGF-1 levels and dysmenorrhea (P≥0.61, r=0.07). A significant relationship was found between IGF-1 levels and BMI (P<0.04, r=0.11). IGFBP3 levels did not show a significant relationship with dysmenorrhea (P≥0.52, r=0.09), but a significant relationship was observed between IGFBP3 levels and BMI (P≥0.04, r=0.29). No significant relationship was found between dysmenorrhea and BMI in obese women (P≥0.52, r=0.09).

The findings of the present study show no significant difference between dysmenorrhea symptoms and IGF1, IGFBP3, and BMI indices following the combined exercise. Thus, dysmenorrhea appears to be influenced by various factors beyond these parameters. Further research is recommended to explore additional contributing factors.