Childhood Trauma and Perceived Stress in Premenopausal Women: Exploring the Role of Hormonal Status

Abstract

Childhood trauma has been consistently linked to increased vulnerability to stress later in life. Combined hormonal contraceptive (CHC) use has also been associated with changes in stress regulation, including blunted physiological responses and elevated subjective stress. While both childhood trauma and CHC use have independently been related to stress, little is known about how hormonal status may influence the association between early adversity and perceived stress. The present study examined whether CHC use moderates the relationship between childhood trauma and perceived stress in premenopausal women. The sample consisted of 244 women aged 18 to 35 (Mage = 22.43, SD = 3.40) who reported current CHC use or natural menstrual cycles. Measures included the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire–Short Form and the Perceived Stress Scale. In line with the first hypothesis, regression analyses revealed a significant positive association between childhood trauma and perceived stress. Contrary to the second hypothesis, hormonal status (CHC use vs. natural cycling) did not significantly moderate this relationship. These findings highlight the lasting impact of childhood trauma on stress perception in premenopausal women. The results emphasize the importance of integrating trauma-informed care into psychological and gynecological health services. Future research should employ longitudinal designs and more precise hormonal assessments to further explore the complex interplay between endocrine and psychological factors in stress vulnerability.