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Night shift work, women’s sexual and mental health, and underlying biological mechanisms

Duration
01/01/2026 - 31/12/2026
Coordinator
Camille Lassale
Funded by
ISCIII I+D+I

Background

Night shift work disrupts circadian rhythms and is associated with a range of adverse mental and physical health outcomes. Women face specific challenges, including menstrual irregularities, reproductive health concerns, chronic pain, and an increased risk of anxiety and depression. While shift work may exacerbate these conditions, research on sex-specific biological mechanisms —particularly those related to meal timing (chrono-nutrition) and the gut microbiome— remains limited.

Methods

We will analyse data from 307 women participating in the EPHOR cohort, including both day and night shift workers. Repeated measures will be used to assess gut microbiome composition, dietary timing, hormonal biomarkers, and mental and sexual health outcomes.

Validated questionnaires will evaluate mood and reproductive health.

Biomarkers of circadian disruption, neurotransmitters and sex hormones will also be analysed.

Longitudinal analyses will examine whether chrono-nutritional behaviours and changes in the gut microbiome mediate the relationship between shift work and women’s sexual and mental health outcomes.

Expected Results

We anticipate higher rates of menstrual irregularities, increased risk of infertility, and mental health disorders among night shift workers. These associations are expected to be mediated by chrono-nutritional behaviours and alterations in the gut microbiome.

The findings will provide insight into sex-specific mechanisms of circadian disruption and inform targeted interventions to improve the health of women working night shifts.

Total Funding

€ 92,500

Funded by ISCIII I+D+I

Our Team

Coordinator

ISGlobal Team

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