Prevalence and patterns of dysmenorrhea and premenstrual syndrome among Egyptian girls (12–25 years)

The hidden link: dysmenorrhea, emotion regulation, and attitudes toward marriage in female nursing students

BACKGROUND

Menstrual pain, or dysmenorrhea, can cause physical discomfort and mood swings, potentially impacting the attitudes of female nursing students toward marriage. Effective emotion regulation strategies are essential for managing stress and shaping their perspectives on marriage. This study sought to investigate the relationship between dysmenorrhea, emotional regulation skills, and attitudes toward marriage among female nursing students.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a stratified sample of 504 female nursing students from four academic years. The study used a combination of the Working Ability, Location, Intensity, Days of Pain, Dysmenorrhea (WaLIDD) Questionnaire, the Marital Attitude Scale, and the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire to assess various factors among the participants. The Pearson correlation coefficient was utilized to examine the relationships among the three primary variables. Additionally, linear regression analysis was employed to forecast attitudes toward marriage based on factors such as dysmenorrhea, residence, family type, regularity of the menstrual cycle, and age at menarche.

RESULTS

The findings of the study are significant, revealing a negative correlation between dysmenorrhea and marital attitudes (r = -0.105, p = 0.019). Dysmenorrhea exhibited minimal and non-significant correlations with emotion regulation strategies, including cognitive reappraisal (r = -0.006, p = 0.898) and expressive suppression (r = 0.013, p = 0.774). In contrast, marital attitudes significantly influenced emotion regulation (β = -0.169, p < 0.001). Moderation analyses indicated significant effects of various factors on marital attitudes, including residence (β = -0.5136, p = 0.0478), family type (β = 5.9923, p = 0.0060), regularity of the menstrual cycle (β = 6.1262, p = 0.0014), and age at menarche (β = 1.5521, p = 0.0491).

CONCLUSION

A significant negative correlation between dysmenorrhea and certain attitudes, specifically optimistic and realistic marital attitudes, was found. This indicates that higher levels of dysmenorrhea are associated with less favorable perspectives in these domains. Additionally, the study demonstrates that negative marital attitudes were linked to poorer emotional regulation. This suggests that individuals with more pessimistic views about marriage may face challenges in effectively managing their emotions. These results underscore the intricate connections between physical health, attitudes, and emotional well-being. They highlight the need to address dysmenorrhea within nursing education and practice, considering its broader psychological impact.

Premenstrual Syndrome and the Attitudes Toward Seeking Professional Psychological Help Among College Students in Oman

Background

This study examines the relationship between premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and the attitude toward seeking professional psychological help among Omani college students.

Method

This study used a cross-sectional design with a convenience sampling approach. The date was issued between January and March 2024. A sample of 601 undergraduate female students completed the study questionnaires, including (1) a sociodemographic questionnaire, (2) the Premenstrual Syndrome Scale and (3) the attitude toward seeking professional psychological distress scale.

Results

The study included 601 eligible participants of age 18-29 years who were mostly single (83.7%) and living on campus (68.6%). PMS prevalence was high at 87.9%, with a mean score of 109.4, indicating low severity for most (62.1%). Participants generally had positive attitudes toward seeking psychological help (41.6% high willingness). A linear regression showed a positive link between PMS severity and help-seeking attitudes.

Conclusion

This study highlights a significant association between the experiences of PMS and attitudes toward seeking professional psychological help among Omani female undergraduate students. With a high prevalence of PMS reported, the findings suggest that cultural factors and support systems play crucial roles in shaping these attitudes. The positive inclination toward seeking help indicates a growing awareness of mental health issues within this demographic. Enhancing mental health services and fostering supportive environments in educational settings can further empower students to address PMS-related challenges.

Social Determinants of Health and Dysmenorrhea: A Systematic Review

Social determinants of health play a key role in health disparities. Dysmenorrhea is a highly prevalent and impactful public health problem affecting reproductive-age females. Systematically examining social determinants of health (SDoH) in dysmenorrhea is important for identifying gaps in the literature and informing research, policy, and clinical practice to reduce the public health burden associated with dysmenorrhea. The purpose of this systematic review was to synthesize the literature on SDoH and dysmenorrhea. The review protocol was prospectively registered. We searched Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Google Scholar through February 2024 using search strategies informed by the literature. Screening of the articles, data extraction, and risk-of-bias (RoB) assessment were conducted independently by at least 2 reviewers on the Covidence platform. Among 2,594 unique records screened, 166 met eligibility criteria and were included for data extraction and RoB assessment. Evidence suggests traumatic experiences, toxic environmental exposures, female genital mutilation, job-related stress, lack of menstrual education, and low social support were associated with worse dysmenorrhea outcomes. However, evidence was equivocal regarding the relationships between dysmenorrhea outcomes and SDoH factors, including socioeconomic status, geographical location, race/ethnicity, employment, and religion. Nearly all articles (99.4%) had a high or very high overall RoB. The relationships between SDoH and dysmenorrhea outcomes were often inconsistent and complicated by heterogeneous study populations and methodologies. More rigorous research examining SDoH in dysmenorrhea is needed to inform policy and clinical practice. PERSPECTIVE: This systematic review synthesizes evidence linking SDoH and dysmenorrhea. The relationships between SDoH and dysmenorrhea were often equivocal and complicated by heterogeneous study populations and methodologies. We identify directions for future research and SDoH factors that could be addressed clinically (eg, trauma, menstrual education, and occupational stress).

Dysmenorrhea in Tunisian high school adolescent girls: frequency, effects, and absence from school

OBJECTIVES

Dysmenorrhea is a known phenomenon and not just recently, and investigations conducted recently have shown that female adolescents are very susceptible to this condition. Our goal is to determine the prevalence of dysmenorrhea in Tunisia, its risk factors, its impact on truancy rates, and the therapeutic attitudes of girls attending high school about this illness using an epidemiological survey.

METHODS

This eight-month study, which spans from October 2022 to May 2023, focuses on 160 high school girls between the ages of 13 and 21. It is a transversal descriptive study. The required data is gathered through the distribution of a self-administered questionnaire.

RESULTS

The mean age of female adolescent participants is 16.44 years and 68 % of them reported dysmenorrhea. The most common symptoms of the pain were headaches (40.0 %). There is a notable prevalence of absenteeism during the menstrual cycle. There seems to be a trend toward self-medication.

CONCLUSIONS

In Tunisia, primary dysmenorrhea is a common cause of school absenteeism among female adolescents. Girls' attitudes toward dysmenorrhea indicate a lack of knowledge, which is why it is crucial for midwives and physicians to educate teenage girls about the condition.

The prevalence of moderate-severe premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder and the related factors in high school students: A cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a clinical condition with physical and psychological symptoms affecting female students' quality of life, social activity, and school performance. Since most studies have focused on adult women, this study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of moderate-severe PMS, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and their related factors in high school students.

METHODS

The participants of this cross-sectional study, conducted in 2019, were 900 high school students in Sari, north of Iran. They were selected by census method from six high schools. Data were collected using Premenstrual Syndrome Screening Tool and General Health Questionnaire.

RESULTS

The prevalence of moderate-severe PMS and PMDD were 33.9% and 12.3%, respectively. According to the logistic regression model, dysmenorrhea was significantly associated with a higher prevalence of moderate-severe PMS [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 2.356, confidence interval (CI): 1.706-3.254, p < 0.0001] and PMDD (AOR: 1.924, CI: 1.186-3.120, p = 0.0008). Moreover, optimal general health was associated with a lower prevalence of moderate-severe PMS (AOR: 0.326, CI: 0.221-0.480, p < 0.0001) and PMDD (AOR: 0.309, CI: 0.161-0.593, p < 0.0001). The findings revealed that a family history of PMS and adding excess salt to the food were associated with a higher prevalence of PMDD (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Although many high school students do not meet the criteria for PMDD, many experience PMS, which could be diminished with proper diet and improved general health.

Prevalence and effects of menstrual disorders on quality of life of female undergraduate students in Makerere University College of health sciences, a cross sectional survey

BACKGROUND

Menstrual problems affect as high as 90% of adolescent females and are the main reason for gynecology visits. Dysmenorrhea was the most frequent menstrual disorder for which adolescents and their parents were referred to a physician. Many undergraduate students are adolescents who undergo several hormonal changes that affect menstrual patterns. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of menstrual disorders and to determine the effect of menstrual disorders on quality of life (QOL) of female undergraduate students at Makerere University college of health sciences.

METHODS

A cross sectional study design using a self-administered questionnaire. WHO (World Health Organization) QOL-BREF (QOL-Best Available Reference document) questionnaire was used to assess QOL of participants. Collected data was double entered into EPIDATA, and transferred to STATA for analysis. Data was presented using tables, and analyzed using percentages, frequencies, medians, interquartile range, means and standard deviations, t-test and ANOVA were used to establish statistical significance. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Of the participants, 275 were included in the data analysis. The median age of the participants was 21 years with range of 18-39 years and interquartile range of 20-24 years. All the participants had attained menarche. Of the participants, 97.8% (95%CI: 95.2-99.0) (269/275) reported some form of menstrual disorder. Premenstrual symptoms were the commonest disorder (93.8% (95%CI: 90.2-96.1), N = 258) followed by dysmenorrhea (63.6% (95% CI: 57.7-69.1), N = 175), irregular menstruation (20.7% (95%CI: 16.3-25.9), N = 57), frequent menstruation (7.3% 95% CI:4.7-11.0, N = 20) and infrequent menstruation (3.3% (95% CI:1.7-6.2), N = 9). Dysmenorrhea and premenstrual symptoms significantly reduced the QOL scores of participants.

CONCLUSION

Menstrual disorders were highly prevalent with negative effects on QOL and class attendance. Efforts should be made to screen and possibly treat menstrual disorders among university students as well as to conduct further studies to elucidate more on the effects of menstrual disorders on quality of life.

Prevalence and patterns of premenstrual disorders and possible association with sexual harassment: a cross-sectional study of young Arab women

BACKGROUND

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) represent a range of both psychiatric and physical symptoms that impair quality of life and interfere with daily activities in females.

AIMS

To assess the prevalence of PMS and PMDD in Egypt, Jordan and Syria, its demographic associations and the potential link to sexual harassment (SH).

METHODS

We used an Arabic version of the premenstrual symptoms screening tool (PSST) to assess the prevalence of PMS and PMDD. Another two-part questionnaire was used to assess the harassment experience.

RESULTS

22,021 women agreed to fill the questionnaire; the majority (65%) aged 18-25 years old. PMS was more prevalent in Egyptian women 77.7% followed by women from Jordan 72.9% then Syria 66.3%. PMDD prevalence followed the same order (40%, 34.7% and 28.2%). Both conditions were significantly associated with obesity and working in medical careers (P = .001). 5733 women agreed to share their sexual harassment experience. Results showed a significant association between the diversity and frequency of sexual harassment and the frequency of the pre-menstrual conditions, PMS Frequency was 87.6%, 80.7% and 78% in participants who were harassed on daily basis Vs. once weekly or monthly vs. few times in their lifetime (p = .04). A similar statistically significant difference was noticed regarding having PMDD (66.4% vs. 47.6% vs. 42.5%).

CONCLUSION

The study showed high levels of both PMS and PMDD. The data provided by this study also sheds light on a potential link between SH and developing Pre-menstrual disorders.

Validation and usability study of the framework for a user needs-centered mHealth app selection

BACKGROUND

Most mHealth app users rely on an app's rankings, star ratings, or reviews, which may not reflect users' individual healthcare needs. To help healthcare providers, researchers, and users select an optimal mHealth app, the Method of App Selection based on User Needs (MASUN) 1.0¹ was developed and tested in prior research. Initial testing found the need for improvement.

OBJECTIVE

This multiple-phase study aimed to simplify and improve MASUN 1.0, resulting in MASUN 2.0, and verify the feasibility and usability of MASUN 2.0.

METHODS

This study was conducted in three phases: (1) modification of MASUN 1.0 to improve its importance, applicability, relevance, and clarity, in consultation with 21 experts in medical or nursing informatics; (2) validation of the draft MASUN 2.0, with 13 experts; and (3) feasibility testing of MASUN 2.0 and usability evaluation of the best app found through MASUN 2.0. Menstrual apps were used to test the framework.

RESULTS

From Phases 1 and 2, MASUN 2.0, the framework for mHealth App selection, was derived with improved simplicity, usability, and applicability through a reduced number of tasks and time required. In Phase 3, after screening and scoring 2377 menstrual apps, five candidate apps were selected and evaluated by five clinical experts, five app experts, and five potential users. Finally, 194 users evaluated the usability of the app selected as the best. The best app helped users understand their health-related syndromes and patterns. Additionally, user-provided scores for impact, usefulness, and ease of use for the app were higher than for others.

CONCLUSIONS

This study successfully modified MASUN 1.0 into MASUN 2.0 and verified MASUN 2.0 through content validity, feasibility, and usability testing. The selected apps through MASUN 2.0 helped health consumers more easily address health discomfort. Future research should extend this work to an automated system and different medical conditions with multiple stakeholders for digital health equity.

Impact of Dysmenorrhea on Academic Performance Among Haramaya University Undergraduate Regular Students, Eastern Ethiopia

Background:

Dysmenorrhea is the most common gynecological problem among students. The disease affects students' academic performance, although studies carried out in Ethiopia primarily focused on the prevalence aspects rather than the impacts of dysmenorrhea on academic performance and its associated factors. Therefore, this study focused on the prevalence of the impact of dysmenorrhea on academic performance and its associated factors among undergraduate female students of Haramaya University in eastern Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study design was conducted from February to March 2020. A multistage random sampling technique was applied and a total of 356 students were included in the study. To select students, simple random sampling was used and the sample size was proportionally allocated with respect to the total number of each selected department. A semi-structured and a pre-tested self-administered questionnaire were used. The descriptive result was presented as a proportion whereas the analytic part was presented with an adjusted odds ratio.

Result

The prevalence of the impact of dysmenorrhea on academic performance was 266 [(74.7%):95%CI (70.0, 79.5%)]. Premenstrual syndrome [AOR = 4.86:95%CI (2.13, 11.06)], early menarche [AOR = 4.89:95%CI (2.03, 11.77)], moderate/severe dysmenorrhea pain intensity [AOR = 8.53:95%CI (4.45, 16.39)], and students monthly pocket money <150ETB [AOR = 3.91:95%CI (1.48, 10.29)] were significantly associated with the occurrence of the impact of dysmenorrhea on academic performance. The most common impacts were difficulty in studying followed by loss of concentration in the class.

Conclusion and Recommendation

There was a high prevalence of impact of dysmenorrhea on academic performance among undergraduate female students of the Haramaya University. Awareness should be created among Haramaya university authorities and teachers about the academic performance impact of premenstrual syndrome and dysmenorrhea pain intensity to provide psychological and academic guidance, and managing mechanisms for the affected students. Haramaya University should also establish medical care for the affected students.

Prevalence of Dysmenorrhea and Associated Factors Among Haramaya University Students, Eastern Ethiopia

Purpose

Dysmenorrhea is the most common gynecological problem among adolescents and a common cause of school absenteeism. Previously, there was no study conducted on prevalence of dysmenorrhea and associated factors among university students in Ethiopia. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess prevalence and associated factors of dysmenorrhea among Haramaya university undergraduate regular students in Eastern Ethiopia.

Materials and Methods

An institution-based cross-sectional study design was conducted from February to March 2020. A multistage random sampling technique was applied and a total of 569 participants were included into the study. The total sample size was proportionally allocated based on the total number of students in each departments, and simple random sampling technique was employed to select participants. The data were entered to EPI‑info version 3.5.4 and then exported to Statistical Package for Social Science version 23.0 software for analysis. The associations between independent variables and outcome variable were explored using bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models. The results of these analysis were reported as odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals.

Results

The prevalence of dysmenorrhea in this study was 356 (64.7%) 95% CI [60.7%, 68.7%]. Premenstrual syndrome (AOR = 5.20:95% CI [2.82, 9.61]), early menarche (AOR = 4.67:95% CI [2.33, 9.37]), history of anxiety (AOR = 4.08:95% CI [2.31, 7.19]), taking of ≥4 glass of tea per day (AOR = 5.69:95% CI [1.49, 21.77]), usually eating fat and oil (AOR = 2.03:95% CI [1.15, 3.59]) and usual use of meat food (AOR = 3.61:95% CI [2.03, 6.39]) were positively and independently associated with the occurrence of dysmenorrhea.

Conclusion

Dysmenorrhea was a common problem among Haramaya University female students. History of anxiety, early menarche, premenstrual syndrome, tea consumption, usual use of fat and oil containing food and usual use of meat food were significantly associated to dysmenorrhea. We recommend Haramaya University to provide accessible and appropriate medical treatment and counseling service for dysmenorrhea affected students.

Comparisons of the Prevalence, Severity, and Risk Factors of Dysmenorrhea between Japanese Female Athletes and Non-Athletes in Universities

This study aimed to investigate the difference in the prevalence, severity, and risk factors of dysmenorrhea between Japanese female athletes and non-athletes in universities. The participants were 18 to 30 years old with no history of a previous pregnancy and/or childbirth. After application of the exclusion criteria, the cohort comprised 605 athletes and 295 non-athletes. An anonymous questionnaire, which included self-reported information on age, height, weight, age at menarche, menstrual cycle days, menstrual duration, dysmenorrhea severity, sleeping hours, dietary habits, exercise habits, training hours, and competition level was administered. Compared with athletes, non-athletes had a higher prevalence of dysmenorrhea (85.6% in athletes, 90.5% in non-athletes, p < 0.05); non-athletes also demonstrated increased severity (none/mild 27.8%, moderate 19.3%, and severe 52.9% in athletes; none/mild 21.2%, moderate 17.2%, and severe 61.6% in non-athletes; p < 0.05). Factors related to severe dysmenorrhea in athletes included long training hours, early menarche, and prolonged menstrual periods. In non-athletes, short menstrual cycle days and extended menstrual periods were related to severe dysmenorrhea. The prevalence and severity of dysmenorrhea were higher among non-athletes than among athletes; different factors were related to severe dysmenorrhea in these two groups. Thus, different strategies are necessary to manage dysmenorrhea for athletes and non-athletes in universities.

Premenstrual syndrome prevalence in Turkey: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of premenstrual syndrome among reproductive age women living in Turkey with a systematic review and meta-analysis study. In this study were scanned keywords ['premenstrual syndrome' and prevalence and Turkish] in the databases including Turkish Medline, PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus and ISI Web of Knowledge. This study included full-text research articles from conducted in Turkey, published in Turkish or English between 2014 and 2018 and indicating prevalence. This study included a total of 18 studies conducted in Turkey reporting the prevalence of premenstrual syndrome. A total of 6890 women participated in these studies. The overall premenstrual syndrome prevalence in the studies examined in this systematic review was 52.2%. Subgroup prevalence was found to be 59% in high school students, 50.3% in university students and 66% of women in general population. In the meta-regression analysis showed that there was no significant relationship between the mean age of the participants with the prevalence of premenstrual syndrome. The results of the study showed that premenstrual syndrome was prevalent among Turkish reproductive age women. Health professionals should organize training for women to gain the ability to manage PMS symptoms. Further interventional studies are needed to cope with PMS.

[Primary dysmenorrhea and psychological resources used by adolescent girls: observational study of 247 high school girls in Finistère]

INTRODUCTION

Primary dysmenorrhea affects 60% of adolescent girls between 14 and 19 years of age and higher rates of depression and absenteeism are found in these young women. Having developed a sense of coherence (SOC) protects against depression associated with and improves the experience of primary dysmenorrhea. The aim of the study was to describe the association between primary dysmenorrhea and SOC. MéTHODS: A multicentric and cross-sectional study was performed on 247 high school girls from Finistère (France).

RESULTS

Sixty point seven per cent of high school girls suffer from primary dysmenorrhea: average VAS greater than or equal to 4 out of 10 with an improvement in pain by analgesics if severe pain (greater than 7 out of 10) to eliminate secondary dysmenorrhea (3.6% suspected). Thirty five point six per cent do not present dysmenorrhea (VAS between 0 and 3). This study shows that having a high SOC reduces menstrual pain (P=0.014). The main treatments used are not those recommended by Clinical practice guidelines.

DISCUSSION

Interventions based on Comprehensive Sexuality Education, medical consultations respecting salutogenic model would provide a better quality of life for adolescent girls by promoting the development of psycho-social skills.

Role of vitamin D and calcium in the relief of primary dysmenorrhea: a systematic review

Dysmenorrhea is one of the well-established problems among women of reproductive age and can have adverse effects on the quality of life of the individual. Some studies suggest a relationship between vitamin D (Vit D) and calcium deficiency and the emergence of early dysmenorrhea. Accordingly, a systematic study was performed to investigate the role of calcium and Vit D in the relief of primary dysmenorrhea. A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, and Google Scholar for papers published between 2010 and 2020. The Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials and Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology checklists were used to assess the quality of the studies. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk-of-bias assessment tool. Low calcium levels lead to an increase in uterine muscle contraction and can cause pain after decreased uterine blood flow. Furthermore, low levels of Vit D can increase primary dysmenorrhea by increasing prostaglandin production or reducing intestinal calcium absorption. That being the case, Vit D and calcium intake can be effective in reducing the severity of primary dysmenorrhea and in reducing the rate of analgesic use. Low levels of Vit D and calcium are inversely related to the severity of primary dysmenorrhea, and Vit D and calcium intake can reduce the severity of primary dysmenorrhea and its associated systemic symptoms. Therefore, the use of calcium and Vit D supplements can be recommended to relieve dysmenorrhea.

The association of acne and menstrual symptoms among young women (18-25 years) in Egypt: a population-based cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Acne and menstrual symptoms are highly prevalent among young women. Since both acne and menstrual symptoms have similar hormonal pathogenesis, it is highly suggested that the two conditions are associated. Herein, we conducted this study to assess the relationship between acne and menstrual symptoms among young women.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

In this population-based cross-sectional study, a multi-stage random sampling approach was used to include 3065 young women (18-25 years) from Egypt. Women were interviewed for their socio-demographic characteristics, gynecological history, premenstrual and menstrual symptoms, and history of acne and perimenstrual acne flare during the past 6 months.

RESULTS

The mean age of women was 21.5 ± 2.2 and their age of menarche was 13.1 ± 1.5 years. During the previous 6 months, 44.8% of participants had acne. After adjusting for socio-demographic and gynecological characteristics, acne was associated with most menstrual symptoms with odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) as follows: [premenstrual symptoms: 1.23 (1.05-1.44) for irritation or nervousness, 1.45 (1.24-1.68) for fatigue, 1.37 (1.15-1.62) for breast tenderness, 1.48 (1.21-1.80) for abdominal bloating, and 1.36 (1.11-1.66) for nausea or vomiting], [menstrual symptoms: 1.63 (1.19-2.23) for dysmenorrhea and 1.24 (1.06-1.45) for dysmenorrhea requiring drugs], and [symptoms severity: 1.44 (1.24-1.68) for missing events and 1.38 (1.16-1.64) for medical consultation]. Of acne patients, 56.7% reported perimenstrual acne flare: 58.5% before menses, 35% during menses, and 6.5% after menses.

CONCLUSION

This study supports the concept that acne is associated with menstrual symptoms. Physicians should consider screening for menstrual symptoms among young women with acne.

Association of sleep duration and insomnia with menstrual symptoms among young women in Upper Egypt

Background

Disturbed sleep and menstrual symptoms are prevalent health conditions with limited successful treatments. This study aimed to detect the association between sleep problems and menstrual symptoms among young women in Upper Egypt. In this cross-sectional study, 4122 young women aged 12 to 25 years and residing in Beni-Suef City were recruited using a multi-stage random method. The participants were interviewed for their premenstrual disorders, dysmenorrhea, average daily hours of sleep, and insomnia during the previous 6 months.

Results

Young women who reported sleep < 8 and < 7 h/day had more premenstrual spasm than those who slept ≥ 8 h/day: OR 1.3, 95% CI 1.1–1.5 and OR 1.3, 95% CI 1.1–1.6, respectively. Hours of sleep were not associated with other menstrual symptoms. Compared with those without insomnia, young women with insomnia were more likely to report premenstrual spasm (OR 2.3, 95% CI 18–2.8), nervousness (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.9–2.8), fatigue (OR 2.9, 95% CI 2.4–3.6), headache (OR 2.6, 95% CI 2.2–3.2), breast pain (OR 1.9, 95% CI 1.5–2.3), weight gain (OR 2.6, 95% CI 2.0–3.3), GIT disturbance (OR 2.8, 95% CI 2.2–3.6), and dysmenorrhea (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.6–4.3).

Conclusion

Insomnia has been shown to be significantly associated with premenstrual symptoms and dysmenorrhea, but no substantial relationship has been indicated between hours of sleep and most menstrual symptoms.

Menstrual disorders and medical counseling among schoolgirls in South Egypt: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Menstrual disorders are common gynecological problems among adolescents, however, medical counseling for these disorders is not well documented in developing countries.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to assess medical counseling for menstrual disorders among schoolgirls in Beni-Suef city in South Egypt.

METHODS

Using a multi-stage random sampling, a total of 970 preparatory schoolgirls were included in this study. We used a self-administered questionnaire to detect the premenstrual and menstrual disorders as reported by the schoolgirls during the previous 6 months. Medical counseling for the menstrual disorders and other demographic characteristics were also surveyed.

RESULTS

The mean age of the schoolgirls was 15.4 ± 0.8 years, age of menarche 13.2 ± 1.1 years and menstrual flow days 5.0 ± 1.3. During the past 6 months, 19.4% of the schoolgirls reported medical counseling for at least one menstrual symptom. Dysmenorrhea (89.2%), premenstrual fatigue (32.4%) and headache (31.1%) were the most often reported symptoms. After adjustment for personal and gynecological characters, abdominal bloating [odds ratio (OR) 3.66; 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.18-6.17], flow days >4 (OR 1.73; 95% CI 1.21-2.47), acne flare (OR 1.42; 95% CI 1.01-1.99), dysuria (OR 2.09; 95% CI 1.35-3.22) and facial hair (OR 6.89; 95% CI 3.47-13.69) were associated significantly with a higher likelihood of medical counseling.

CONCLUSION

Menstrual disorders are highly prevalent among preparatory schoolgirls in Beni-Suef, however, there is a noticeable lack of the medical counseling for these disorders. Future research should focus on the barriers to medical counseling for menstrual disorders among adolescents.

Association between menstrual disorders and school absenteeism among schoolgirls in South Egypt

Background Menstrual disorders are highly prevalent among girls and may interrupt school attendance. This study aimed to investigate the association between menstrual disorders and school absenteeism among schoolgirls in South Egypt. Subjects and methods A multi-stage random sampling method was adopted to select 930 schoolgirls. A self-administered questionnaire composed of 3 sections (socio-demographic characteristics, menstrual disorders, and school absenteeism) was used to assess the relationship between different menstrual disorders and school absenteeism during the previous 6 months. Results The mean age of the participating schoolgirls was 15.5 ± 0.8 years, age of menarche 13.2 ± 1.2 years, menstrual cycle duration 28.8 ± 7.3 days with average flow days 5 ± 1.3. During the previous 6 months, 43.9% of schoolgirls reported school absenteeism. Dysmenorrhea (89.1%) and premenstrual symptoms, especially abdominal spasm (62.2%), fatigue (32%), and headache (22.7%) were heavily reported during the same period. Menstrual flow >4 days [odds ratio (OR) 1.37, 1.04-1.80], premenstrual abdominal spasm (OR 1.60, 1.22-2.11), fatigue (OR 1.69, 1.27-2.24), breast tenderness (OR 1.67, 1.17-2.38), insomnia (OR 1.92, 1.31-2.80), abdominal bloating (OR 2.29, 1.34-3.91), dysmenorrhea (OR 4.44, 2.58-7.62), dysmenorrhea for more than 1 day (OR 1.38, 1.03-1.84), menstrual acne flare (OR 2.23, 1.68-2.97), dysuria (OR 1.96, 1.31-2.93), and facial hair (OR 2.59, 1.26-5.31) were significantly associated with school absenteeism. Conclusion Premenstrual and menstrual disorders are associated with school absenteeism among schoolgirls in South Egypt. Future research should focus on the effect of school counseling on reducing the absenteeism rate attributed to menstrual disorders.