THE PREVALENCE OF PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME AND ITS ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS AMONG YOUNG FEMALES OF UNIVERSITY OF LAHORE

Abstract

Background: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a combination of physical and emotional symptoms, these symptoms start from 1 to 2 weeks before menstruation, before the onset of menstrual flow, these symptoms occur in cyclic pattern. Premenstrual symptoms are more prevalent and severe in highly educated women than in uneducated women, and there may be a link between stress and PMS. PMS involves psychiatric or physical symptoms that severely affect a woman's ability to function normally in daily life, including at work, in relationships, and with personal activities, ultimately diminishing her overall quality of life. PMS is a significant health issue for young girls because it is common in younger age groups. Premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder can be treated with lifestyle measures such as physical exercise, quitting smoking, and weight control.

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) within university students, as well as the risk factors related with PMS.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among young females at the University of Lahore to determine the prevalence of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and its associated risk factors. A total of 383 participants of female university students with regular menstrual cycle aged between 18-30 years, currently not pregnant nor breastfeeding were recruited using a convenient sampling technique. Females with diagnosed depression, any gynecological problem, taking hormonal therapy and those did not complete the questionnaire were excluded. Data collection involved administering a structured questionnaire, which included two sections: The Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool (PSST) is used to assess PMS and a demographic form to evaluate potential risk factors. 

Results: The prevalence of PMS was 62.4%. If we discus about potential risk factors participants with underweight 30(7.8%), healthy weight 174(45.5%),over weight 88(23%),obese 91(23.8%),physical activity > 150 min per week 63(16.4%), physical activity < 150 min per week 204(53.3%),no physical activity 116(30.3%), consumption of fruits and vegetables < 5 times a week 234(61.1%),consumption of junk food < 5 times a week 149(38.9%),depression 91(23.8%),hypothyroidism 62(16.2%),hyperthyroidism 44(11.5%),no health problem 186(48.6%). The chi-square analysis revealed that age (p =0.001), BMI (p =0.001), physical activity (p = 0.001), nutritional status (p = 0.001), and health status (p = 0.001) had a statistically significant association with PMS. 

Conclusion: The research revealed a high prevalence of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) within young females. Age, BMI, physical activity, nutritional status, and health status were strongly connected with PMS.