Prevalence of Dysmenorrhea and its Impact on Quality of Life among Nursing Students at Assuit University, Egypt

Abstract

Primary dysmenorrhea is one of the most common complains and gynecological problem worldwide among young female girls. A cross sectional descriptive study was implemented on 188 nursing students at Assuit University, Egypt. The main aim was to determine the prevalence of dysmenorrhea and its impact on the quality of life, particularly absenteeism from college. Data were collected through self-structured interviewing questionnaire for data related to socio-demographic characteristics, menstrual characteristics, habits and medical characteristics, menstrual associated symptoms activities, treatment used, and methods of managing dysmenorrhea. Moreover; Quality of Life Scale and verbal multidimensional scoring system were used to assess the severity of dysmenorrhea.The mean age of the students was 20 (range 17-22) years. The average age of menarche was 13.2 years, (9 to 15 years).The vast majority (90.4%) were single, suffered  from dysmenorrhea, had a regular menstruation, menstrual duration between 21-34 days, had a positive family history of dysmenorrhea,  and prepared for menarche. The prevalence of dysmenorrhea was  very high (90.4%),  which significantly higher with consummation of tea, coffee, coke, chocolate, and obesity as well,  females with menstrual bleeding duration 7 days and more, menstrual duration cycle between 21 and 34 days, and those who had a positive family history of dysmenorrhea. There was a significant association between Quality of Life and severity of dysmenorrhea. Based on the results of the study it can be concluded that dysmenorrhea is a common health problem, having negative effects on the quality of life among university female students. So., we suggest implementation of an educational program to increase the awareness of the adolescent girls during the activity time. College officials and college health program coordinators may benefit from considering dysmenorrhea in the context of improving their college attendance rates and academic performance of their students. Participating in regular physical activity program to help them to decrease the negative impact of dysmenorrhea on their academic, social and even personal life.