Pattern of menstrual irregularities amongst women presenting to gynecological outpatient department

ABSTRACT

The length and regularity of menstrual cycles reflects the pattern of changes in ovarian steroid production. Disturbance of menstrual bleeding is a major social problem for women and accounts for high percentage of gynecological outpatient visits. To look into various patterns of menstrual irregularities among the gynecological patients, its associated symptoms and its effect on their marital life. This cross sectional study was carried out in outpatient department of gynaecology and obstetrics of Punjab employee social security hospital Islamabad from January 2012 till December 2012. Patients presenting with menstrual irregularities, from the age of menarche till the age of menopause, were included in this study. A pre structured proforma was used to collect the data regarding descriptive statistics such as age, parity, marital status. Data regarding detailed menstrual history as well as various patterns of menstrual irregularities and its associated symptoms were also collected. Amongst a total of 100 patients studied, mean age was 33 years +/- 2.37 SD. Eighty percent patients were married, and amongst them 75% had parity more than five and 25% had parity less than five. Prevalence of menstrual irregularities was found to be 70%. Regarding various patterns of menstrual irregularities, 30% complained of menorrhagia with mean duration of bleeding days of 8 SD +/- 0.83. Oligomenorrhoea was reported by 20% patients and 50% patients complained of dysmenorrhoea, 30% experienced easy fatigue ability and 20% had generalized weakness. Menstrual irregularity had effect on daily life activity in 86% of cases. Additionally, among the 80 married females, 88% complained that menstrual irregularity had affected their marital life. There is lack of information regarding menstrual problems and when to seek help. There is a need to educate the females regarding menstrual problems not only to improve their health but also as a possible indicator of existing pathology