For pregnant workers, especially those on fixed night shifts, this review indicates a modestly higher risk of miscarriage. Other job demands like long hours, heavy lifting, or standing for long periods may add small additional risks, though the evidence is mixed. The results highlight the importance of monitoring work schedules and physical demands during pregnancy. Employers and healthcare providers may consider individual adjustments—such as reducing fixed night shifts or very heavy workloads—to help lower potential risk.
Summary
This hospital-based cross-sectional study surveyed 207 nurses and nursing assistants to examine the link between shift work and digestive disorders. Rotating shift workers were about twice as likely to report irritable bowel syndrome (33%) compared with day workers (17%). Functional dyspepsia was equally common in both groups, but poor sleep and high stress increased the odds of both conditions. Rotating shift work itself remained an independent risk factor for IBS even after accounting for gender and sleep quality.
Why It Matters For Night Shift Workers and Night Owls
This study shows that shift schedules can affect more than just sleep and energy — they may also increase the risk of irritable bowel syndrome. Nurses working rotating shifts were more likely to experience IBS, especially if their sleep quality was poor. For workers, this highlights the importance of monitoring digestive symptoms and protecting sleep. For employers, it suggests that gastrointestinal health should be considered when evaluating the impacts of rotating schedules.
Notes
Early hospital‑based GI study.