Menstrual health and hygiene among young Palestinian female university students in the West Bank: a cross-sectional study

Perceptions, Beliefs, and Experiences about the Menstrual Cycle and Menstruation among Young Women: A Qualitative Approach

The experience of menstruation is often associated with negative connotations and gender stereotypes, which results in making it invisible. This research aimed to explore the perceptions, beliefs, and knowledge of young Spanish women regarding the menstrual cycle and menstruation and their impact on their lives. The study delves into their understanding, menstrual management practices, the types of menstrual products employed, and their experiences related to menstrual health. Qualitative methodology was used with discussion groups as a data collection technique. The participants comprised 45 young Spanish women, aged between 18 and 23, hailing from both rural and urban areas. The majority were university students, with some engaged in part-time work, and one participant working full-time. While many experienced menstrual pain ranging from mild to debilitating, a normalization of this pain often led them to forego seeking specialist assistance. Disposable menstrual products (DMPs) are the most used by participants, despite limited awareness of their absorption capacity. Regarding reusable menstrual products (RMPs), menstrual cup users emphasized comfort but expressed a need for proper training. Negative menstruation experiences could evoke fear and difficulties, underscoring the importance of providing comprehensive menstrual health education encompassing both theoretical and practical components.

Prevalence of premenstrual syndrome and its associations with dietary and other lifestyle factors among university female students in Dubai: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Premenstrual syndrome is a relatively prevalent condition that affects a significant number of menstruating women worldwide. It can range from mild to severe and may interfere with daily activities.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate the prevalence of premenstrual syndrome and its associated factors among female university students in Dubai.

DESIGN

This study was designed as a cross-sectional study.

METHODS

The analysis for this study involved 217 female university students (aged ⩾18 years old) who completed a self-reported online questionnaire. Participants were recruited through simple random sampling, and the study received ethical approval from the Zayed University Ethical Committee.

RESULTS

All participants reported that they experienced at least one premenstrual syndrome symptom with different levels of severity. The prevalence rate of psychological, physical, and behavioral symptoms was 83.0%, 79.4%, and 76.6%, respectively. The most frequently reported premenstrual psychological symptoms were loss of control (69.6%). Most reported physical premenstrual symptoms included lethargy/fatigue/decreased energy (56.7%); premenstrual syndrome symptoms interfered with participants' daily routines (45.2%). Normal body mass index, no smoking, milk consumption, cruciferous vegetables, fruits, animal foods, fish oil supplements, and no fast-food consumption were all significant factors associated with decreasing premenstrual syndrome.

CONCLUSIONS

Premenstrual syndrome is a common menstrual disorder among university students that interferes with their daily routines. Dietary habits and other lifestyle factors were highly related to premenstrual syndrome. Therefore, health promotion programs are highly recommended to encourage healthy diets and lifestyles for females as early as adolescence at the school level.