An observational study on premenstrual symptoms and dysmenorrhoea among nursing students

Abstract

The distressing symptoms of Premenstrual syndrome have been recognized for centuries by physicians. An Observational study including a total of 79 First year BSc Nursing students of SDM College of Nursing Sci- ences was carried out over a period of 3 months.Predesigned semis- tructured questionnaire containing questions regarding sociodemo- graphic profile,menstrual cycle abnormalities, dietary habits and physical exercise was used for data collection. Premenstrual Symp- tom reporting diaries were given to participants for reporting symp- toms over a duration of two consecutive menstrual cycles. Total 79 girls studying in first year BSc nursing were includ- ed in the study. Mean age of participants was 17.8 years. Mean age at attainment of menarche was 13.4 years. Out of 79 girls 6(7.59%) had irregular menses. Heavy flow during menses was noted by 18 partic- ipants. Dysmenorrhoea was reported by 58(73.4%) participants. One or more symptoms during the two consecutive menstrual cycles were reported by 29 (36.7%) participants. No statistically significant asso- ciation was found between occurrence of Premenstrual symptoms and consumption of junk food, exercise, consumption of sugar, salt and citrus fruits. ven though menstruation is a physiological process, many suffer from disorders of menstruation and premenstrual symp- toms, which needs attention.