A Cross-sectional Study of Primary Dysmenorrhea among Students at a University: Prevalence, Impact and of Associated Symptoms

Aims: To evaluate the prevalence of primary dysmenorrhea and its severity among female university students in Iran; its associated symptoms; its impact on academic performance and social activities.
Study Design: This is a cross – sectional descriptive study.
Place and Duration of Study: This study carried out from May to July 2012 in the Islamic Azad university, branch of Rasht in Iran.
Methodology: A cross – sectional survey of 600 students conducted by questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of three parts that included demographic characteristics; menstrual history; and impact of dysmenorrhea on academic performance and social activities. A visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to assess the severity of dysmenorrhea. Data were analyzed using the chi-squire test by SPSS.
Results: The results showed that the prevalence of dysmenorrhea was 73.2% and there were significant differences between pain intensity and associated symptoms (P<0.05). Among participants, 69.7% expressed that dysmenorrhea had an adverse effect on their academic performance. Also, more than 60% of participants reported that their social activities and relationships with family were affected by dysmenorrhea. Statistically significant correlation was observed between pain duration, its severity, and social activities (P<0/0001).
Conclusion: Dysmenorrhea is highly prevalent among female university students and is related to absenteeism and limitations in social and academic performance. Therefore, it is necessary that educational programs about its effective methods can help alleviate the discomfort during menses.