Abstract
Dysmenorrhea is a common problem among young females, and if severe enough, can adversely affect the productivity and quality of life. The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence and predictors of dysmenorrhea among university students in Dammam. Accordingly, a cross-sectional study was conducted in Art and Science Colleges of Dammam University. 924 students were selected by stratified random sampling with proportionate allocation. The participants completed a self-administered questionnaire, which assessed socio-demographic and menstrual characteristics. In addition, weight and height were measured and body mass index was estimated.
Results revealed that about 35% of the university students had severe dysmenorrhea and almost 21% had moderate to severe Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). The most common risk factor for dysmenorrhea was positive family history (67.9%), followed by physical inactivity (52.6%) and irregular menstruation (30.8%). About 57% of students used analgesics to relieve symptoms of dysmenorrhea. Nearly 35% of the students skipped one day of college and about 8% skipped two or more days because of dysmenorrhea. Stepwise regression analysis of factors affecting dysmenorrhea revealed that the main predictors of dysmenorrhea were PMS (OR=1.6), family history (OR=1.5) and beginning of dysmenorrhea within the first 3 years of menarche (OR=1.4). PMS, the most preventable predictor of dysmenorrhea, was significantly associated with irregular menstruation. Hormonal manifestations of PMS were significantly associated with excess salt intake, while the circulatory manifestations were significantly associated with excess coffee intake.
The results of this study calls for interventions, such as educational programs, to limit the adverse effects of the problem on the students' quality of life and productivity.