Dysmenorrhea and its Effects among Female Students at Health Colleges in Najran University, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Dysmenorrhea is referred as to pain during menstruation and is the most common menstrual disorder among women who present to clinicians. Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of dysmenorrhea and its effects on the quality of life of female students at health colleges in Najran University, Najran, Saudi Arabia. Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted at Najran University. The participants were students at health colleges in Najran, Saudi Arabia. Data were collect using a self-administered questionnaire designed for this study. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 23. Result: A total of 194 students responded. The prevalence of dysmenorrhea was 93.3%, with 136 students (70.1%) reporting regular cycles and 158 (81.4%) reporting a moderate level of menstruation. The most common symptoms of moderate and severe dysmenorrhea were abdominal pain (67/194, 34.5% and 62/194, 32%, respectively) followed by fatigue (64/194, 33% and 60/194, 30.9%, respectively). The condition significantly affected college attendance, and was associated with loss of concentration, low mood and mood change, anger, nausea and loss of appetite (P=0.0001). Conclusion: Our study showed a high prevalence of dysmenorrhea among students in in health colleges. The most common menstrual symptoms associated with severe dysmenorrhea were abdominal pain, fatigue, mood change, reduced college attendance and crying. Thus, clinics to diagnose and manage dysmenorrhea among female student are urgently required.