Sexual activity, orgasm and tampon use are associated with a decreased risk for endometriosis.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of the study was to determine if sexual behaviors, orgasm, tampon use, and douching during menstruation modify the risk of endometriosis.


METHODS
A case-control study was conducted. Subjects (n = 2,012) consisted of members of the Endometriosis Association and friends not affiliated with the organization who completed mailed surveys. Data were analyzed using chi(2), Fisher's exact test, t test, and regression analyses.


RESULTS
There was no difference between study groups concerning douching practices. However, cases were less likely than controls to report sometimes or often engaging in sexual behaviors during menstruation (p = 0.002, OR = 1.5), and sexual behaviors during menstruation that included orgasm (p = 0.001, OR = 1.5). Cases were also less likely than controls to report using only tampons (p < 0.0001, OR = 2.6).


CONCLUSIONS
Sexual activity, orgasm, and tampon use during menstruation may confer protection against endometriosis.
Meaddough
Erika L
EL
Department of Public Health, Southern Connecticut State University, New Haven, CT, USA.
Olive
David L
DL
Gallup
Peggy
P
Perlin
Michael
M
Kliman
Harvey J
HJ
D000328:Adult; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D004715:Endometriosis / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D052576:Menstrual Hygiene Products / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D008598:Menstruation; D009948:Orgasm / Q000502:physiology; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012725:Sexual Behavior; D007507:Therapeutic Irrigation