Menstrual cycle health is a health endpoint and a risk factor for the general health and well-being of women and individuals assigned female at birth: 8 to 13 perc ent of women suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS); 10 percent of women from endometriosis during their reproductive years; another 10 percent of women experience period pain so intense that they cannot perform everyday routines. Vice versa, cycle length and regularity have been associated with hormonal imbalances, gynaecological diseases, infections, and the risk of developing chronic diseases such as ovarian or breast cancer, mental health disorders, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or dementia.

Scope of the thesis

At the Centre for Digital Health Interventions (CDHI), we are committed to integrating female-specific data into the development of digital biomarkers (i.e., “sensing”) and just-in-time adaptive health interventions (i.e., “support”) across ongoing, future, and dedicated female health-specific research projects.

In collaboration with the Menarche, Menstruation, Menopause and Mental Health (4M) Consortium led by Prof. Dr. Gemma Sharp, University of Exeter, our current objective is to explore women’s perspectives on being asked sensitive questions related to their (female) health history as part of research studies.

Major tasks include, but are not limited to

• Review and synthesis of relevant literature
• Development of a research question, research approach, and dedicated hypotheses
• Development of an online survey
• Quantitative and qualitative analysis of the survey data
• Summary of results
• Publication

Requirements

At our institution, embarking on a thesis journey should be a mutually rewarding and engaging experience. We are therefore looking for a motivated student proficient in data analysis, eager to collaborate within a team and thrive on close interaction throughout their master’s thesis project. An overarching interest in (digital) healthcare and women’s health is essential.

Start: Anytime, as soon as possible
Methodology: Scoping review
Duration: 6 months (or to be discussed)

Interested students are invited to send an email with their CV and transcript of records to Dr. Marcia Nißen.