Experts Advocate for Inclusion of Menstrual Cycle Data in Health Records

In a groundbreaking assertion, healthcare experts have emphasized the critical need for menstrual cycle data to be systematically documented in health records, suggesting that such information can serve as vital indicators of broader health conditions. This call to action was articulated in a study published in the *Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology, & Women’s Health* on July 24, 2025, highlighting a significant oversight in current healthcare practices, particularly in England, where menstrual cycle information is rarely collected except in specific reproductive contexts.

The study states that characteristics such as cycle length, regularity, intensity, and duration of bleeding can reveal underlying medical issues, including diabetes, thyroid disorders, and polycystic ovarian syndrome. The authors argue that the absence of this data not only limits the understanding of menstrual health but also contributes to the underdiagnosis of conditions like endometriosis and fibroids, which impact the quality of life for many women.

According to Dr. Ranee Thakar, President of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, “Serious conditions like fibroids and endometriosis can have a devastating impact on almost every aspect of a person’s life, including impacting their physical and mental health, and their ability to work and socialise.” This statement underscores the importance of recognizing menstrual cycle data as a vital sign that can enhance clinical treatment and preventive care.

Recent research indicates that over a quarter of women in England are living with serious reproductive health issues, yet their concerns are often dismissed due to what has been described as “medical misogyny.” A report by the Women and Equalities Parliamentary Committee found that nearly 19% of women experienced severe period pain in the past year, and 40% reported heavy menstrual bleeding, further demonstrating the urgent need for comprehensive health data collection.

The current healthcare landscape in England contrasts sharply with the routine documentation of other health metrics such as BMI and cholesterol levels. Experts argue that the systemic barriers—operational, structural, and cultural—prevent women from receiving the care they need. Dr. Thakar added, “The current system risks entrenching health inequalities.”

The authors of the *Lancet* study concluded that recognizing the menstrual cycle as an essential health indicator could significantly improve health services and research across various disciplines. They stated, “The menstrual cycle is an underused but powerful tool for understanding gynaecological and general health.”

In light of these findings, there is an increasing demand for period-tracking devices; however, concerns about data privacy have emerged. Public health bodies, including NHS England, are being urged to develop alternative applications to safeguard personal health information. Currently, NHS England has been approached for comments regarding this pressing issue.

Experts advocate that integrating menstrual cycle data into health records would not only facilitate better health monitoring but also empower women by ensuring that their health concerns are addressed comprehensively. As this discourse continues, the recognition of menstrual cycle data as a crucial health metric could reshape the landscape of women’s healthcare, ultimately leading to improved outcomes and greater equality in health services.