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Shift workers at fertility risk

A University of Southampton study indicates that working shift patterns is associated with an increased risk of menstrual disruption.

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Shift workers at high risk of fertility problems

A Southampton University study found that working shift patterns made it harder for women to conceive.

The study compares the impact of working non-standard working schedules with that in women not working shifts.

Led by Dr Yin Cheong, a senior lecturer at Southampton University, and Dr Stocker included data on 119,345 women and found that those working shifts had a 33 per cent higher rate of menstrual disruption than those working regular hours.

Whilst we have demonstrated an association between shift work and negative early reproductive outcomes, we have not proven causation. However, if our results are confirmed by other studies, there may be implications for shift workers and their reproductive plans. Our findings may have implications for women attempting to become pregnant as well as employers."

– Dr Stocker, University of Southampton clinical researcher
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