RESUMO
OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of the primary dysmenorrhea in adolescence age and investigate correlation between menstrual factors, dietary habits and this pathology. STUDY DESIGN: The sample was constituted from 356 students that were subjected to questionnaire, abdominal ultrasound, and in some cases, hormonal dosing. RESULTS: The frequency of the primary dysmenorrhea was 85%. Early menarche was related to an increase of its prevalence and its severity. A long and heavy menstrual flow was related to an increase of its severity. As far as dietary habits, it was noted that a higher consumption of fish, eggs, fruit and a lower consumption of wine is correlated with a lower frequency. CONCLUSION: Primary dysmenorrhea is very common in young women. The risk factors for this pathology are early menarche, long and heavy menstrual flow, and lower consumption of fish, eggs, and fruit.
