Prevalence of premenstrual syndrome in female nursing students at a public university: cross-sectional study / Prevalência da síndrome pré-menstrual em acadêmicas do curso de enfermagem de uma universidade pública: estudo transversal

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a set of physical, mood, cognitive and behavioral changes which happens between the two weeks before menstruation, which can hinder a woman's personal, academic, and professional performance. The objective of this study was to identify the prevalence of PMS in female nursing students. METHODS: A cross-sectional study using a virtual questionnaire on sociodemographic and gynecological characteristics and the Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool (PSST) questionnaire, which looks for physical and psychological symptoms of PMS, interference of symptoms in daily life and establishes a positive screening for PMS. RESULTS: A total of 114 students participated in the study. The most prevalent characteristics were being between 18 and 23 years old, single and in their 5th or 6th academic year. In addition, the majority went through the menarche between 11 and 13 years of age, with menstrual flow of 3-5 days. Of these, 40.4% used hormonal contraceptive methods and 37.7% did not use any type of contraceptive method. The prevalence of PMS was 61.4%. The most frequent symptoms were physical symptoms (93.9%), anger/irritation (91.2%), urge to cry/increased sensitivity (88.6%), anxiety/tension (86.8%) and decreased interest in social activities (85.1%). These symptoms interfere with relationships with family (81.6%), social life activities (80.7%), efficiency at work or college/productivity (79.8%), relationships with colleagues at work/college (77.2%) and responsibilities at home (75.4%). CONCLUSION: PMS is prevalent among female nursing students and its symptoms affect the daily lives of this population, interfering with their personal and social relationships as well as academic activities.

RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: A síndrome pré-menstrual (SPM) é um conjunto de alterações físicas, de humor, cognitivas e comportamentais, iniciadas entre as duas semanas prévias a menstruação, que podem causar desgastes no rendimento pessoal, acadêmico e profissional da mulher. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar a prevalência da SPM em acadêmicas do curso de enfermagem. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal realizado por meio de um questionário virtual sobre características sociodemográficas e ginecológicas e o questionário Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool (PSST), que busca sintomas físicos e psicológicos da SPM, interferência dos sintomas no cotidiano, e estabelece uma triagem positiva para SPM. RESULTADOS: Foram recrutadas 114 acadêmicas da graduação em enfermagem. As características mais prevalentes foram a faixa etária entre 18 e 23 anos, solteiras e cursando o 5° ou 6° período do curso. Ademais, a maioria com menarca entre 11 e 13 anos, com fluxo menstrual de 3 a 5 dias. Destas, 40,4% usavam métodos contraceptivos hormonais e 37,7% não usavam nenhum tipo de método contraceptivo. A prevalência encontrada de SPM foi de 61,4%. Os sintomas mais frequentes foram sintomas físicos (93,9%), raiva/irritação (91,2%), vontade de chorar/aumento da sensibilidade (88,6%), ansiedade/tensão (86,8%) e interesse diminuído nas atividades sociais (85,1%). Estes sintomas interferem no relacionamento com a família (81,6%), nas atividades de vida social (80,7%), na eficiência no trabalho ou faculdade/produtividade (79,8%), nos relacionamentos com os colegas de trabalho/faculdade (77,2%) e nas responsabilidades de casa (75,4%). CONCLUSÃO: A SPM é prevalente entre as acadêmicas do curso de enfermagem e seus sintomas afetam o cotidiano desta população, interferindo nos seus relacionamentos pessoais, sociais e atividades acadêmicas.

Impact of menstrual cycle on smoking cessation: A review / El impacto del ciclo menstrual en el abandono de tabaco: Una revisión

Abstract Background Information on the way menstrual cycle phases can influence the achievement of tobacco abstinence is contradictory. Objective A scope review was conducted to determine the effect of the menstrual cycle on tobacco abstinence, considering the phases of the cycle, hormone levels, and premenstrual syndrome. Method A literature search was conducted in Scopus, PubMed, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO databases. Ten articles comparing the phases of the menstrual cycle or analyzing the association between premenstrual syndrome and a withdrawal condition (length of abstinence or withdrawal symptoms) were included. Results Two main results were identified: 1) there is no difference in withdrawal symptoms and craving between menstrual cycle phases and 2) abstinence rates in the studies were higher during the luteal phase. Discussion and conclusion The advisability of suggesting that women wishing to quit smoking should begin to do so at the start of the luteal phrase is discussed. However, smoking cessation interventions must consider all the symptoms experienced during the luteal phase.

Resumen Antecedentes La información sobre cómo las diferentes fases del ciclo menstrual pueden influir en el logro de la abstinencia de tabaco es contradictoria. Objetivo Se realizó una revisión de alcance con el fin identificar la evidencia relacionada al efecto del ciclo menstrual en la abstinencia de tabaco, considerando las variables fases del ciclo, niveles hormonales y síndrome premenstrual. Método Se llevó a cabo una búsqueda de la literatura en las bases de datos Scopus, PubMed, MEDLINE y PsycINFO. Se incluyeron diez artículos que realizaban comparaciones entre las fases del ciclo menstrual o bien análisis entre el síndrome premenstrual y una condición de abstinencia (tiempo de abstinencia o síntomas de abstinencia). Resultados Se identificaron dos resultados principales 1) no hay diferencia en los síntomas de abstinencia y el deseo por fumar entre las fases del ciclo menstrual y 2) las tasas de abstinencia de los estudios fueron mayores durante la fase lútea. Discusión y conclusión Se discute si en la fase lútea se puede sugerir el inicio de la abstinencia en mujeres que buscan dejar de fumar, sin embargo, las intervenciones para dejar de fumar deben tomar en cuenta todos los síntomas que se experimentan en la fase lútea.

Frecuencia de la sintomatología del síndrome de ovario poliquístico y el síndrome premenstrual, relacionado con el estrés académico en estudiantes de medicina de una Universidad Privada del Perú

Introducción: El síndrome de ovario poliquístico y el síndrome premenstrual son prevalentes. Objetivo: Determinar la frecuencia de la sintomatología del síndrome de ovario poliquístico y del síndrome pre menstrual y su relación con el estrés en estudiantes de medicina. Material y métodos: Estudio analítico transversal. La población de estudio fue de 322 estudiantes de medicina del primer al sexto año, elegidas por conveniencia de una universidad privada de Trujillo. Mediante un formulario de google se aplicó el cuestionario "SPM", "el inventario SISCO del Estrés académico", y "el cuestionario sobre ovario poliquístico"; previo conocimiento informado, tuvo la aprobación del Comité de Bioética de la universidad. Resultados: El SOP presentó una probabilidad alta de 5,28%, media de 46,58% y baja de 48,13%. La frecuencia del SPM en los niveles, leve, moderado y alto fueron de 47,52%, 25,47% y 4,04% respectivamente. Los niveles de estrés fueron: leve, moderado y profundo de 4,35%, 65,22% y 30,43%, respectivamente. Se encontró asociación altamente significativa entre el estrés y SPM; estrés y SOP; p= 0,000915106 y p= 1.8589E-25 respectivamente. Conclusiones: La frecuencia de SPM, la probabilidad alta de SOP y los niveles de estrés fueron altos y existe asociación significativa entre el estrés, SPM y SOP.

Introduction: Polycystic ovarian syndrome and premenstrual syndrome are prevalent. Objective: to determine the frequency of the symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome and premenstrual syndrome and its relationship with stress in medical students. Methods: Cross-sectional analytical study. The study population was 322 medical students from the first to the sixth year, chosen for convenience from a private university in Trujillo. Using a google form, the "SPM" questionnaire, "the SISCO inventory of academic stress", and "the polycystic ovary questionnaire" were applied; prior informed knowledge, it had the approval of the Bioethics Committee of the university. Results: The SOP presented a high probability of 5.28%, a medium of 46.58% and a low of 48.13%.The frequency of PMS at the levels, mild, moderate and high were 47.52%, 25.47% and 4 04% respectively.The levels of stress were: mild, moderate and deep of 4.35%, 65.22% and 30.43%, respectively.A highly significant association was found between stress and SPM, stress and PCOS, p = 0.000915106 and p= 1.8589E-25 respectively. Conclusions: The frequency of PMS, the high probability of SOP and the stress levels were high and there is a significant association between stress, SPM and SOP.

El alivio natural: Sauzgatillo (Vitex agnus-castus) para el síndrome premenstrual y la dismenorrea / The natural relief: Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus) for premenstrual syndrome and dysmenorrhea

El síndrome premenstrual es un trastorno común en mujeres en edad reproductiva y se caracteriza por al menos un síntoma físico, emocional o conductual, que aparece en la fase lútea del ciclo menstrual y se resuelve poco después del inicio de la menstruación. Los tratamientos convencionales para el dolor perimenstrual cíclico tienen inconvenientes que incluyen efectos secundarios, interferencia con la función reproductiva de las mujeres o escasa efectividad en el alivio de los síntomas. Muchas mujeres recurren a terapias naturales para tratar una gran variedad de síntomas menstruales. Esta revisión se centra en una de esas opciones naturales, el Sauzgatillo (Vitex agnus-castus). Se realizó una búsqueda e identificación de artículos publicados hasta mayo de 2022 recopilados por medio de sistemas de búsqueda electrónicos como Google Scholar, Medline, PubMed y Scopus. Las palabras de búsqueda fueron: “Premenstrual syndrome”, “dysmenorrhea” AND “Vitex agnus-castus”. Los estudios preclínicos señalan un mecanismo de acción en su implicación sobre el sistema serotoninérgico, así como su unión a los receptores de dopamina. Los estudios clínicos demuestran la seguridad y el efecto positivo sobre el síndrome premenstrual y la dismenorrea.

Premenstrual syndrome is a common disorder in women of reproductive age and is characterized by at least one physical, emotional, or behavioral symptom, which appears in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and resolves shortly after the onset of menstruation. Conventional treatments for cyclical perimenstrual pain have drawbacks that include side effects, interference with womens reproductive function, or limited effectiveness in relieving symptoms. Many women turn to natural therapies to treat a wide variety of menstrual symptoms. This review focuses on one of those natural options, Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus). The information available until May 2022 was collected via the library and electronic search systems such as Google Scholar, Medline, PubMed, and Scopus. The search words were: “Premenstrual syndrome”, “dysmenorrhea” AND “Vitex agnus-castus”. Preclinical studies point to a mechanism of action in its involvement in the serotoninergic system, as well as its binding to dopamine receptors. Clinical studies prove safety and positive effect on premenstrual syndrome and dysmenorrhea.

Determination of severity of premenstrual syndrome among vegetarian and non-vegetarian women

Background: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a condition that most women experience during the luteal phase of their menstrual cycle. It usually abates at the commencement of the periods. During this period, apart from physical discomfort, some women experience psychological and behavioral changes as well, which can disturb their lives. Various studies have been conducted on PMS and its effect on an individual with respect to body mass index and exercise, but very few studies are available on the association of diet with PMS. Therefore, we are evaluating the relationship between dietary pattern and PMS morbidity. Aims and Objectives: The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence of PMS and its severity in different age groups of women and compare its association with vegetarians and non-vegetarians. Materials and Methods: This is a cross-sectional study conducted among the staff and students of East Point College of Medical Sciences and Research Center. Data were collected using a well formulated, structured, and pre-tested questionnaire, which had questions on diet patterns and PMS symptoms. Results: PMS was found to be more prevalent in young women (18–25 years) (57%) compared to older women (26–49 years) (43%), and the symptoms were slightly more severe among vegetarians (9%), compared to non-vegetarians (5%). There was no correlation between severity and body mass index. Conclusion: PMS is one of the most common gynecological complaints in young women. Although PMS is not a serious disorder, it can definitely change the quality of life for many women and affect their mental health and productivity. Creating awareness among young adolescents to lead a healthy lifestyle with changes in their diet and physical activity can improve the condition.

Efficacy of Curcumin on Cognitive Function Scores in Women with Premenstrual Syndrome and Dysmenorrhea: A Triple-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial / 中国结合医学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To assess the efficacy of a curcumin supplementation on cognitive abilities in women suffering from premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and dysmenorrhea.@*METHODS@#A randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted from December 2019 to March 2020. A total of 124 women who had both PMS and dysmenorrhea were enrolled, and were equally and randomly assigned to the curcumin group or placebo group, 62 cases in each. Each subject received either a capsule containing 500 mg of curcuminoid, or a placebo daily, for 10 days (7 days before and until 3 days after the onset of menstrual bleeding) over 3 menstrual cycles. The cognitive abilities questionnaire was used to measures cognitive functions in 7 specific areas. Adverse reactions were monitored during and after the trial in both groups.@*RESULTS@#Administration of curcumin was associated with a significant increase in memory score (P=0.002), inhibitory control and selective attention (P=0.020), and total cognitive ability task (P=0.024). In addition, significant increments were found in scores of memory (3.5±3.1 vs. 0.4±3.8 in the curcumin and placebo groups, respectively; P=0.035), inhibitory control and selective attention (3.0±3.7 vs. 0.4±3.7; P=0.027) and total cognitive abilities (8.3±12.3 vs. 2.2±12.4; P=0.025) in the curcumin group versus placebo groups. Curcumin was safe and well-tolerable in current clinical trial.@*CONCLUSION@#Curcumin has a beneficial efficacy on cognitive function scores in women with PMS and dysmenorrhea, with improvements in memory, inhibitory control and selective attention. (Registration No. IRCT20191112045424N1, available at: https://www.irct.ir ).

Pharmacological basis of Evening Primrose Oil in Premenstrual Syndrome — An evidenced based approach

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a recurrent luteal-phase condition associated with somatic emotional and behavioral symptoms. Frequently reported symptoms include breast discomfort, mood swings, fluid retention and food cravings. The exact etiology of PMS is unknown; however, the underlying mechanism is a complex interaction between fluctuations in ovarian steroids and central neurotransmitters as well as peripheral effects of hormones. Therefore, surprisingly a wide range of treatments are not available with satisfactory outcomes. Evening Primrose Oil (EPO) is one of the most popular for the management of PMS. EPO is a valuable fixed oil extracted from the Oenothera biennis seeds. It comprises essential fatty acids, including linoleic acid, Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA), and Vitamin E, which have been used in various treatments. It has been clinically shown to improve psychological (mood and sleep disturbances) and physical symptoms (breast pain/tenderness, bloating, fatigue) in women suffering from PMS. The rationale put forward for investigating the use of EPO in PMS is thataffected women appear to have abnormal levels of essential fatty acids; hence administrating linoleic acid and GLA in the form of EPO could potentially alleviate the symptoms of PMS.

Premenstrual Syndrome and Childbirth Fear Prior to Pregnancy in Young Women: An Association and Cross-Sectional Study

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to determine the association between premenstrual syndrome and the childbirth fear prior to pregnancy. METHODS: This was an association and cross-sectional study conducted on 327 university students. Data were collected using "Participant Information Form," "Premenstrual Syndrome Scale," and "Childbirth Fear-Prior to Pregnancy Scale." RESULTS: It was found that the childbirth fear had increased in students with premenstrual syndrome. The Women Childbirth Fear-Prior to Pregnancy Scale score was statistically significantly higher among students who preferred caesarean section than those who preferred vaginal delivery. There was a weak, positive, and statistically significant correlation between the students' depressive sensation, anxiety, fatigue, nervousness, depressive thoughts, pain, appetite changes, sleep pattern changes, and bloating subscales of Premenstrual Syndrome Scale and Women Childbirth Fear-Prior to Pregnancy Scale. CONCLUSION: The score of the Women Childbirth Fear-Prior to Pregnancy Scale increases with an increase in the score of the Premenstrual Syndrome subscale. It should be evaluated whether or not women experiencing premenstrual syndrome have the childbirth fear prior to pregnancy.

Correlation of Body mass index with premenstrual syndrome and age at menarche in medical students

Background: The female reproductive cycle encompasses various physiological phenomenon and menstruation being one such is associated with various problems affecting the quality of life. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is one of them. Body mass index (BMI) is considered a modifiable risk factor for PMS and is also related to the age at menarche. Aim and Objectives: To determine the correlation of BMI with PMS and the age of onset of menarche among medical students. Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted at a Medical College at Gangtok, among 100 consenting participants after obtaining due permission from the Institutional Ethics Committee. Apart from demographic details, height and weight were recorded along with age of onset of menarche. The presence or absence of PMS was evaluated using Calendar of Premenstrual experiences, a self-reported dairy measure of PMS developed by Mortola et al. Results: Mean age of participants was 20.7 years and at mean age of 12.5 years they attained menarche. Girls who had either low or high BMI attained menarche at a higher age, but the difference was not significant (P = 0.142). Association between PMS and BMI was poor (0.027, P = 0.869). The correlation analysis found a poor negative correlation (?0.052, P = 0.606) between BMI and age at menarche. The correlation between age at menarche and the presence of PMS was positive (0.182, P = 0.07). Conclusion: PMS was seen in 53% of the study population, but only 24% had a high BMI. Deviated BMI from normal had menarche at a higher age and there was a poor correlation between the BMI and PMS.

Quality of life and symptom severity in premenstrual syndrome: a quasi-experimental study

OBJECTIVE: The current study was conducted to investigate the effectiveness of group counseling on quality of life and symptom severity among university students with Premenstrual Syndrome. METHOD: After filling in PSST and participating in SCID-CV, 120 students answered the demographic and WHOQOL questionnaires. Using classified random sampling, they were divided into control and intervention groups. The Intervention Group participants attended six group counseling ses-sions. They post-tested at two moments (immediate post-test and after one month). RESULTS: The results of the immediate post-test indicated improvements in overall quality and in some domains (p<0.005) in the Intervention Group, and the second post-test showed an improvement in two of the domains (p<0.005). One month later, some symptoms were clearly improved in the Intervention Group (p<0.005). CONCLUSION: Group counseling improved the students' quality of life and severity of the Premenstrual Syndrome symptoms.

Self-reported executive function, and not performance-based measures, strongly associates with symptoms of premenstrual syndrome/premenstrual dysphoric disorder / Autorreporte de funciones ejecutivas, y no medidas de desempeño, fuertemente se asocia con síntomas de síndrome premenstrual/trastorno disfórico premenstrual

Abstract Introduction Premenstrual syndrome/premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMS/PMDD) may be neuropsychologically understood as impairments of executive functions (EF), since these are related to the regulation of complex behavior and cognition. Objective To test the utility of self-report of EF versus performance-based measures, for the understanding of PMS/PMDD, and to analyze interactive effects between symptoms of these pathologies and EF on daily-life functionality. Method Mexican women were recruited through non-probabilistic procedures. The Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool (PSST) was used to determine severity of symptoms and functional impairment in daily-life activities, and the Behavioral Rating Inventory of Executive Functions-Adults (BRIEF-A) (short Spanish-translated version) adapted to collect information on EF during luteal versus follicular phases. Performance was evaluated with Stroop, Trail Making Test and Letter-Number Sequencing. Results A total of 157 were analyzed. Three groups were formed: No diagnosis ( n = 78); PMS ( n = 67) and PMDD ( n = 12). Between-group differences were observed for both BRIEF-A-Luteal and BRIEF-A-Follicular. Bivariate correlations between these measures and the PSST were found, with double the magnitude relative to BRIEF-A-Luteal. Only two indicators of performance-based measures were weakly associated to the PSST. The regression model showed high multicollinearity between self-reported EF and PMS/PMDD symptoms, and no interaction was found. Discussion and conclusion Self-report probed a better association than based-performance tests for the assessment of EF in PMS/PMDD. EF deficits and PMS/PMDD symptoms, particularly during luteal phase, may be as closely link as to allow for the consideration of these diagnoses as partial forms of dysexecutive syndrome.

Resumen Introducción El síndrome premenstrual/trastorno disfórico premenstrual (SPM/TDPM) pueden entenderse neuropsicológicamente como alteraciones de las funciones ejecutivas (FE), ya que éstas permiten la regulación del comportamiento complejo y la cognición. Objetivo Evaluar la utilidad del autorreporte de las FE versus pruebas de desempeño para comprender el SPM/TDPM, y analizar los efectos interactivos entre los síntomas de estas patologías y las FE sobre el funcionamiento diario. Método Mujeres mexicanas fueron reclutadas por medio de procedimientos no probabilísticos. El Instrumento de Detección de Síntomas Premenstruales (PSST) se utilizó para determinar la gravedad de los síntomas y el deterioro funcional en las actividades de la vida diaria, y el Inventario de Evaluación Conductual de la Función Ejecutiva-Adultos (BRIEF-A) (versión breve traducida al español) para recopilar información sobre EF durante las fases lútea versus folicular. Se emplearon también las pruebas de desempeño: Stroop, Trail Making Test y Secuencia de Letras y Números. Resultados Se analizó un total de 157 participantes. Se formaron tres grupos: sin diagnóstico ( n = 78); SPM ( n = 67) y TDPM ( n = 12). Se observaron diferencias entre los grupos para BRIEF-A-Lútea y BRIEF-A-Folicular. Se encontraron correlaciones bivariadas entre estas medidas y el PSST, con el doble de magnitud en relación con BRIEF-A-Lútea. Solo dos indicadores de medidas basadas en el desempeño mostraron una asociación débil con el PSST. El modelo de regresión mostró alta multicolinealidad entre el autorreporte de FE y SPM/TDPM, y no se encontró la interacción esperada. Discusión y conclusión El autorreporte mostró una mejor asociación que las pruebas de rendimiento para la evaluación de FE en SPM/TDPM. Los déficits de EF y los síntomas de SPM/TDPM, particularmente durante la fase lútea, pueden estar tan estrechamente vinculados como para permitir la consideración de estos diagnósticos como formas parciales de síndrome disejecutivo.

Food Craving and Symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome among University Students

@#Introduction: Food craving was one of the common symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) among women. This study aimed to examine level of food craving during pre-menstruation and PMS symptoms; its association and predictor of PMS symptoms on food craving during pre-menstruation among university students. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among female undergraduate students from International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan Campus. Screening phase for eligibility was conducted. Three questionnaires consisted of Health History Questionnaire, Food Craving Questionnaire-Trait-reduced and Premenstrual Tension Syndrome Rating Scale were distributed among eligible students. Descriptive analysis, Pearson correlation test and multiple linear regression were performed using SPSS version 22.0. P value was set at p<0.05 as statistically significant. Results: 129 students were eligible as study respondents. A total of 48% of the respondents showed clinically relevant traits of food craving. The highest food craving among respondents were sweet foods (45.7%) followed by fatty (18.6%), spicy (10.9%), salty (8.5%) and sour (2.3%) food. 60% respondents had moderate to severe PMS symptoms level. There was a significant association between food craving and PMS symptoms (p=0.001). PMS symptoms significantly predicted food craving (p=0.002). Conclusion: This study is at the forefront in reporting food craving and PMS symptoms among undergraduate students which were prevalent during pre-menstruation. Food craving was significantly associated with PMS symptoms. This research provides further insight related to food craving among women particularly the role of PMS symptoms as predictor. Strategies in preventing substantial calories intake during pre-menstruation is therefore required in this population.

Polycystic ovary syndrome risk: efficacy of self-assessment test

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a growing morbidity in young women globally. This disease has an association with several exogenous factors like irregularity of menses, hirsutism and obesity. Very few standardized self-assessment tools based on easily observable factors are available for use in the Indian population, which can help them to assess their PCOS risk accurately.Methods: Undergraduate women of the age group 18-22 years enrolled in a university campus participated in the survey questionnaire. Nineteen questions with binary answers as “yes” or “no” were used for self-assessment test. Each “yes” was scored as one mark, and each “no” scored as zero, leading to the maximum score of 19. Scores of the women with irregular menses (test group) were compared to those of regular menses (control group). Welch’s corrected t-test was used to calculate the significance at 5% between the groups. The clinical assessment confirmed the presence or absence of PCOS condition.Results: One thousand and fifty-four women participated in the study. The study showed that 262 (24.8%) of young women reported irregular menstrual cycle. The average total score of the control group was 3.07±2.35, whereas that of the women with irregular menses was 5.93±2.86. 21 out of 28 participants, who scored high, were diagnosed with PCOS, on clinical assessment by Rotterdam criteria.Conclusions: The self-assessment test can assess the risk of PCOS. This test has 75% sensitivity and accuracy in predicting the presence of PCOS.

Fatores associados à síndrome pré-menstrual e ao transtorno disfórico pré-menstrual em estudantes da área de saúde / Factors associated with premenstrual syndrome and dysphoric disorder in health students

O estudo avaliou a frequência da síndrome pré-menstrual (SPM) e do transtorno disfórico pré-menstrual (TDPM) e fatores associados entre estudantes de cursos da área de saúde em uma universidade no Recife, Brasil. Realizou-se um corte transversal envolvendo 649 estudantes entre 18 e 47 anos, no período de setembro/2016 a março/2017. As estudantes que aceitaram participar do estudo e assinaram o termo de consentimento livre e esclarecido responderam a um questionário autoaplicável com dados sociodemográficos, hábitos de vida e antecedentes ginecológicos, bem como questões relacionadas aos critérios diagnósticos de SPM/TDPM. A maioria das estudantes tinha entre 18 e 24 anos (83,2%), era solteira (92,1%), morava com os pais (77,0%) e não trabalhava (84,4%). A frequência de SPM simples foi de 23,3% e da TDPM, de 26,7%. Os sinais e sintomas físicos foram os mais frequentes (84,1%) entre as estudantes com SPM. As 173 estudantes com TDPM relataram como sintomas mais frequentes a irritabilidade (89,6%) e a ansiedade (87,3%) acentuadas. O teste de qui-quadrado foi utilizado para comparar as proporções entre os fatores associados à SPM e ao TDPM, considerando p < 0,05. Os fatores de risco que tiveram associação estatística com a ocorrência de SPM/TDPM foram o índice de massa corporal (IMC) < 25 (p = 0,01) e irregularidade dos ciclos (p = 0,04).(AU)

This study evaluated the frequency of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and associated factors among university students in health courses in Recife, Brazil. A cross-sectional study was carried out involving 649 students aged 18 to 47 years between September 2016 and March 2017. Students who agreed to participate in the study and signed a free informed consent form, was invited to answer a self-administered questionnaire with socio-demographic data, lifestyle and gynecological history, as well as issues related to the diagnostic criteria of PMS/PMDD. Most students were between 18 and 24 years old (83.2%), single (92.1%), living with parents (77.0%) and did not have a job (84.4%). The frequency of simple PMS was 23.3% and PMDD was 26.7%. Physical signs and symptoms were the most frequent (84.1%) among students with PMS. The 173 students with PMDD reported more frequent symptoms of irritability (89.6%) and anxiety (87.3%). The Pearson chi-square test was used to compare the proportions of the factors associated with PMS and PMDD, considering p < 0.05. BMI < 25 (p = 0.01) and cycle irregularity (p = 0.04) were the factors who had a statistically significant association with the occurrence of PMS/PMDD.(AU)

Prevalence of premenstrual syndrome and dysmenorrhea among medical students and its impact on their college absenteeism

Background: Dysmenorrhea and premenstrual syndrome are two most common gynaecological problem leading to college absenteeism seen among female medical students. Aim of the study was to evaluate the factors associated and prevalence of dysmenorrhoea and PMS and its effects on the quality of life, particularly absenteeism from college in female medical students. The health care profession has an obligation to provide and to promote education on menstruation and related subjects.Methods: This is a prospective study, conducted on 100 MBBS students studying in a medical college at Mangalore. All participants were given a preformed questionnaire to complete. Dysmenorrhea was assessed based on WaLiDD scoring system. Diagnosis of PMS in the present study was made according to diagnosis criteria proposed by American College of obstetrician and gynecology. The severity of their condition was assessed based on their absenteeism from college/classes.Results: The average age of the participants was 21 year±1 year. The prevalence of dysmenorrhea was 45% and that of the pre-menstrual syndrome was 68%. Pre-menstrual syndrome (p = 0.05) is significantly associated with overweight, obesity and physical inactivity but not the same for dysmenorrhea. 73% and 60% of students consumed junk food suffered from PMS and dysmenorrhea respectively, 40% of students with dysmenorrhea reported limitation of daily activities and significantly associated with college absenteeism (p = 0.005). The most frequent somatic symptom of PMS in this study was breast tenderness (41%) and affective symptom was irritability (35%).Conclusions: Dysmenorrhea and PMS is highly prevalent among female medical students; it is related to college/class absenteeism. Unhealthy and sedentary lifestyle could be the attributing factors which has to be addressed by health education in order to improve the quality of life and academic performance by the medical students.

Menstrual cycle pattern in adolescent girls among urban and rural regions – A comparative cross-sectional study

Background: The term adolescence involves the period of various changes in the body of both males and females, which includes physical, mental, cognitive, developmental, and socio-behavioral changes. The period of adolescence starts from the age of 10 years and it lasts until the age of 19 years. The age at menarche in girls usually ranges between 14 and 16 years. Objective: This study was aimed to assess the various pattern of the menstrual cycle in adolescent girls and to compare the menstrual cycle pattern among rural and urban girls. Materials and Methods: It was a cross-sectional study conducted among 868 adolescent girls after obtaining Ethical Committee Clearance. After obtaining informed written consent, a questionnaire was explained to them in their native language for easy understanding. The questionnaire was structured to obtain information relating to the age at menarche, duration of bleeding, severity of bleeding, awareness of menstruation, source of information about menstruation, cultural practices during menstrual cycles, regarding various menstrual problems, and treatment practices among the study population. The data thus obtained were tabulated and analyzed statistically using SPSS software. Results: There was a statistically significant (P ≤ 0.05) difference present between rural and urban girls’ menstrual cycle pattern with respect to dysmenorrhea, premenstrual symptoms, and problems related to menstrual flow and menstrual practices such as diaper usage, home culture, and food habits. Conclusion: The menstrual cycle pattern differs significantly between rural and urban girls. This analysis shows decreased awareness of the menstrual cycle in rural girls than urban girls. Hence, proper health education can be given to improve their knowledge.

Prevalence of menstrual morbidity in adolescents girls: a cross sectional study

Background: Menstruation is said to be a physiological process in women. The word ‘menstruation’ was derived from a Latin word ‘menses’. Menstrual dysfunction was found to affect 75% of adolescent girls which includes dysmenorrhoea, menorrhagia and irregular cycles. Premenstrual syndrome constitutes a group of physical and emotional symptoms which occurs one week before menstrual cycle. It was found to be a cycle disorder which appears in the luteal phase. Adolescent girls are at high risk of developing premenstrual syndrome. Because of menstrual dysfunction and premenstrual syndrome, the adolescent girls are at high risk of menstrual morbidity.Methods: After getting approval from institutional ethical committee of Madras Medical College, the study was carried out in adolescent girls. The study was carried out by giving questionnaire in nearly 505 students for the duration of 6 months. The study participants were explained about the study. The questionnaire was structured so as to obtain information regarding the age at menarche, duration of cycle, awareness about menstruation, source of information regarding menstruation, practices during menstrual cycles, regarding menstrual problems and treatment practices.Results: The average age of participants was 17 years with an SD of 1.5. of 505 participants, about 6% had 45 days frequency, 10% had 38 days frequency and 2% had 60 days frequency of menstrual cycle. It was found around 1% had 8 days duration and 3% had 9 days duration of menstrual cycle. About 13% of Participants had mild flow, 7% had severe flow and 20% had variable quantity of menstrual flow.Conclusions: From this study, it was found that menstrual dysfunction were prevalent among adolescent girls. These were found to cause menstrual morbidity among adolescent girls. Hence it is necessary to educate and create awareness about menstrual morbidity among adolescent girls.

Assessment Of Menstrual Health And Analgesics Usage In Young Age Women

Objective: The study focuses on assessing the incidence of menstrual irregularity among young women and the factors for a disturbance with the rationale to assess the use of analgesic drugs during Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS). Methods: A cross-sectional study was used. A total of 2500 randomly selected young female between the age of 11 and 30 y completed the study questionnaire to assess lifestyle pattern, variations in menstrual pattern, perceived stress, and to capture information about their menstrual cycle and related problems. In addition, the questionnaire assessed the use of analgesics for PMS. Results: 2481 participants completed the questionnaire. The mean age of participants’ menarche was 12.85±1.432 y. The prevalence of menstrual irregularities was 25.0 % (n=621) and about 8.5% (n=211) of respondents had severe pain that was not relieved by the use of analgesics. On the other hand, 50.9 % (n=1262) reported severe pain that was relieved by analgesics. A total of 1279 (51.6 %) of participants in this study used Over The Counter (OTC) analgesics to relieve PMS. Conclusion: Dysmenorrhea is the most common complaint among young females in Saudi Arabia. Low Body Mass Index (BMI), sedentary lifestyle, stress and early age of menarche are the most important factors associated with menstrual irregularities. Proper education programs and awareness among young girls about their menstrual health, and the provision of guidance in choosing effective analgesics and treatment options for dysmenorrhea are highly recommended.

Oxaloacetate reduces emotional symptoms in premenstrual syndrome (PMS): results of a placebo-controlled, cross-over clinical trial

OBJECTIVE: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects millions of women. While over-the-counter products have helped with the physical symptoms of PMS, emotional symptoms have been less well supported. The objective of this trial was to measure the effect of an oxaloacetate/vitamin C combination on the major emotional symptoms of PMS, including depression, anxiety, perceived stress, aggression, and suicidal ideation.METHODS: Forty-eight women experiencing PMS completed a baseline survey comprising the Beck's Depression Inventory, Cohen Perceived Stress Scale, Generalized Anxiety Disorder Test, and Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire. After baseline measurements, participants were randomly assigned to take either 2 capsules of 100 mg oxaloacetate/150 mg ascorbic acid, or 2 capsules of rice flour (placebo) for their entire menstrual cycle. At menstruation, the women completed the 4 surveys again. The women then switched capsules in a cross-over design and continued the study for an additional menstrual cycle. The final assessment was repeated at menstruation. Statistical analysis of the 4 surveys was performed to examine efficacy.RESULTS: Oxaloacetate/vitamin C supplementation during PMS significantly improved depression, perceived stress, anxiety, aggression, and suicidal ideation. The mean improvement in depression was 54.1%, 35.8% for perceived stress, 51.43% for generalized anxiety, and 17.8% for aggression. Suicidal ideation was reduced by 47.9%. All results were highly significant.CONCLUSION: A combination of oxaloacetate and vitamin C supplementation helped to alleviate depression, anxiety, perceived stress, aggression, and suicidal ideation symptoms associated with PMS.TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03509714

Menstrual Cycle Characteristics and Premenstrual Syndrome Prevalence Based on the Daily Record of Severity of Problems in Korean Young Adult Women / 간호학회지

PURPOSE: This descriptive study aimed to identify the menstrual cycle characteristics and premenstrual syndrome (PMS) prevalence in Korean young adult women using the retrospective and prospective Daily Record of Severity of Problems (DRSP).METHODS: In the first stage, participants included 151 nursing students studying in a university located in Seoul. Data were collected from April 20 to June 2, 2017, using the questionnaire on menstrual characteristics, pictorial blood assessment chart, and retrospective DRSP. In the second stage, participants included 17 students with PMS, based on the screening conducted in the first stage. Data were collected using the prospective DRSP from May 29 to 2 September 2, 2017.RESULTS: Of the study sample, 104 participants (68.9%) had regular periods. Those with regular periods had 11.97 periods annually with a menstrual cycle of 29.38 days and a period duration of 5.72 days. Fifty-five participants (37.4%) showed menorrhagia. Sixty-four participants (42.4%) were found to have PMS based on their retrospective DRSP. When the ratio of women (52.9%) with PMS shown in the prospective DRSP was used as a positive predictive value, the estimated PMS prevalence was 22.4%.CONCLUSION: This study provides clinically significant PMS prevalence among Korean young adult women, positive predictive value of the retrospective DRSP, and valid data to basically understand the menstrual cycle characteristics experienced by these women.