[Menstruation disorders in insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus--epidemiology and causes].

About 20% of all women with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) have menstrual irregularities. Eight percent have amenorrhea. Fluctuations in blood glucose and insulin concentration are probably contributing factors, but the irregular menstrual cycles are mainly caused by disorders in the central ovulatory mechanisms. Hypothalamic GnRH release is regulated by several neuropeptides. Dopamine and opiates exert an inhibitory effect, and there is evidence for an abnormally high dopaminergic hypothalamic activity among women with IDDM. There might also be disorders of the opioid, serotonergic and GABA'ergic systems, but the consequences of there possibilities remain uncertain.