NIOSH Training for Nurses on Shift Work and Long Work Hours

Diseases and Shift Work (Continued)

Reproductive Outcomes

A review of 11 studies reported shift work is associated with modest increases in spontaneous abortion, preterm birth, and reduced fertility in women.⁷⁸

A few studies examined the influence of shift work on menstrual cycle symptoms. They found that shift-working women have more visits to healthcare providers for menstrual complaints, more sick feelings or dysmenorrhea during menstruation, and changes in menstrual cycle length (shorter, longer, or irregular).⁷⁹

Reports concerning the fertility of male shift workers are too few to determine whether it is affected by shift work.