During the menstrual cycle, female sex hormone levels fluctuate greatly, which can impact glucose and energy metabolism. Many women with type 1 diabetes report particular difficulties in achieving stable blood glucose levels during certain phases of their menstrual cycle. Despite these reported experiences, scientific research into exactly how the menstrual cycle affects glucose metabolism has been scarce.

In the MCM-LOOP research project, we are systematically investigating how hormonal fluctuations across the menstrual cycle affect blood glucose levels, insulin sensitivity and energy metabolism. We use technologies such as continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), automatic insulin delivery systems (AID systems) and wearable devices for data collection (e.g. smartwatches). In addition, the women will perform daily urinary hormone profiles at home to accurately determine the cycle phases.

The MCM-LOOP study will continuously collect data collection over three menstrual cycles. This will be complemented by cycle phase-specific additional examinations. In the extended data collection, additional blood samples will be collected and supplementary examinations will be performed to evaluate energy metabolism in detail. 

The aim of this study is to better understand the individual challenges posed by hormonal fluctuations and thus improve personalised diabetes care for women. The findings will allow us to close existing knowledge gaps on the impact of cycle-dependent changes onto glucose and energy metabolism, and will contribute to the development of cycle-adapted management therapy strategies for women with type 1 diabetes. 

Technical limitations of previous studies will be overcome by novel measurement methods and a combination of several methods multimodal approach, allowing, for the first time, for a high-resolution, cycle-related analysis of glucose metabolism.

The results of the MCM-LOOP study will:

- Provide new insights into cycle-dependent changes in glucose and energy metabolism

- Contribute to the development of individualised, cycle-adapted therapy strategies for women with type 1 diabetes

- Improve the awareness and knowledge of women and healthcare professionals about the impact of the menstrual cycle on diabetes.