An obstetrical and gynaecological insight to measure the gender specific issues including menstrual disorders in patients with scoliosis – A genuine step towards empowering women’s inclusive health

Study Design: Ambispective observational study Objective: Scoliosis has systemic implications beyond musculoskeletal changes. Its potential impact on hormonal, menstrual, reproductive, and obstetrical health in females remains underexplored. The objective of this study is to evaluate and compare the menstrual, reproductive, and obstetrical health of females with different subtypes of scoliosis and to identify associated gynaecological abnormalities. Methods: The study was conducted at a tertiary care centre between January 2021 and November 2022. A total of 292 female scoliosis patients and 50 age matched controls were included. Participants were assessed through clinical evaluation, questionnaires, and ultrasonographic examination. Parameters studied included age at menarche, cycle regularity, bleeding characteristics, physical/psychological symptoms, and ultrasonographic findings (endometrial thickness, ovarian morphology) and obstetric outcomes. Statistical tests included Fisher’s exact test and Bartlett’s test for variance. Results: Mean age at menarche was delayed in scoliosis patients, especially in congenital scoliosis compared to controls. Menstrual irregularities, menorrhagia, and dysmenorrhea were significantly higher in congenital and syndromic scoliosis groups. Physical complaints were significantly more common in scoliosis groups than controls (p = 0.003), but psychological symptoms showed no statistical difference. Endometrial thickness and incidence of follicular cysts/bulky ovaries were significantly elevated in congenital and syndromic scoliosis groups. 13 out of 15 patients had unplanned caesarean sections; no cases of spontaneous abortion or infertility were recorded. Conclusions: Scoliosis, particularly of congenital and syndromic origin, is associated with delayed menarche, menstrual irregularities, and gynaecological abnormalities. Although obstetrical data were limited, trends suggest potential complications that merit further investigation.