Periods may trigger pain for many who have sickle cell disease

Medical Xpress

February 19, 2026

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Periods may trigger heightened pain for many women and girls with sickle cell disease (SCD), according to a new nationwide study led by researchers at UC San Francisco. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, found that menstrual cycles are linked to increased pain episodes, emergency department visits, and hospitalizations among female SCD patients. The research included 211 participants from 13 SCD centers across 11 states, providing a comprehensive look at how menstruation impacts the lives of those living with SCD. The findings revealed that many women experienced more severe pain during their menstrual cycles, which researchers believe is due to the body’s response to both sickle cell-related complications and hormonal changes associated with menstruation. Women with SCD often face challenges related to anemia, blood flow restrictions, and inflammation, which can worsen during periods. This increased pain frequency led to higher rates of ED visits and hospitalizations, highlighting the significant burden this condition places on affected individuals. Understanding the connection between menstruation and SCD-related pain is crucial for improving care and treatment plans. The study underscores the need for healthcare providers to consider menstrual cycles when managing pain in female SCD patients. By addressing these cyclical patterns, doctors can better support their patients and potentially reduce emergency room visits and hospital stays. This research matters because it sheds light on a specific but often overlooked aspect of living with SCD—how common, yet underexamined, factors like menstruation can significantly impact health outcomes. For readers interested in health and medical advancements, this study highlights the importance of personalized care for women with chronic conditions and the need for further exploration into how hormonal cycles interact with diseases like sickle cell anemia. Overall, the study emphasizes the necessity of tailored approaches to pain management for female SCD patients, particularly during menstrual periods. By raising awareness about these connections, healthcare providers can develop more effective strategies to improve quality of life for those affected by SCD.

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Originally published on Medical Xpress on 2/19/2026