A qualitative exploration into the experiences of the menstrual cycle in relation to alcohol use and research

Warren, Jasmine G ORCID: 0000-0001-6676-2954, Fallon, Victoria M ORCID: 0000-0002-7350-2568, Goodwin, Laura, Gage, Suzanne H and Rose, Abigail K ORCID: 0000-0003-3267-7318 (2026) A qualitative exploration into the experiences of the menstrual cycle in relation to alcohol use and research Journal of Substance Use, 31 (1). pp. 133-140. ISSN 1465-9891, 1475-9942

Access the full-text of this item by clicking on the Open Access link.

Abstract

Introduction: Despite approximately half of the population experiencing menstrual cycles, little is known about experiences of fluctuations in mood and behavior relating to alcohol use. Literature has investigated whether the cycle affects alcohol use, but none have explored whether individuals are conscious of effects. It is also crucial to understand what people believe is important for researchers to investigate within this topic. The aim was to qualitatively investigate experiences of the menstrual cycle and how it may affect alcohol use. The second aim was to understand what methods researchers should consider. Methods: Inductive thematic analysis was used to analyze 20 semi-structured interviews from individuals in the UK. Results: Results showed alcohol themes: alcohol during menses (reduced consumption); motives for consumption (less social drinking during menses and drinking to cope with premenstrual symptoms); and conscious changes in alcohol use (individuals were unaware of fluctuations). For research themes: menstrual literacy (inadequate education); healthcare (inconsistencies in healthcare provision); and research topics (key areas suggested). Conclusion: Overall, there are some conscious fluctuations in alcohol use, with regard to menses, and menstrual literacy was generally poor. Further research is needed for other samples (e.g., menopausal individuals and alcohol). Also, improvements in menstrual education are needed to improve menstrual literacy.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	5203 Clinical and Health Psychology, 52 Psychology, Substance Misuse, Alcoholism, Alcohol Use and Health, Health Disparities and Racial or Ethnic Minority Health Research, Clinical Research, Health Disparities, Basic Behavioral and Social Science, Behavioral and Social Science, Minority Health, Contraception/Reproduction, 2.3 Psychological, social and economic factors, Cancer, Oral and gastrointestinal, 3 Good Health and Well Being
Divisions:	Faculty of Health & Life Sciences Faculty of Health & Life Sciences > Inst. Population Health
Depositing User:	Symplectic Admin
Date Deposited:	03 Apr 2025 10:10
Last Modified:	20 Jan 2026 15:57
DOI:	10.1080/14659891.2025.2481072
Open Access URL:	https://doi.org/10.1080/14659891.2025.2481072
Related Websites:	Publisher
URI:	https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/3191186
Disclaimer:	The University of Liverpool is not responsible for content contained on other websites from links within repository metadata. Please contact us if you notice anything that appears incorrect or inappropriate.