A Cross-Sectional Study Regarding the Prevalence of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Its Impact on the Regular Life of Female Students in Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) causes a variety of disturbing symptoms that can affect mood, cognition, and physical well-being and have effects on the regular lives of females, especially students. Objective: Assessment of female students’ knowledge, attitude, and awareness regarding PMS, evaluation of the prevalence of PMS in Bangladesh, and its impact on the regular life of female students in Bangladesh. Study Design: Cross-sectional study using a semi-structured questionnaire. Method: Primary data were collected by conducting an online survey with a semi-structured questionnaire. Data collection was carried out from March 2021 to October 2021. The subjects’ age range was 13–35. A total of 366 female students participated in the survey from different demographic profiles. Results: 74.86% of respondents were between the ages of 21 and 25, and they were mostly undergraduate students (71.31%). 77.05% of respondents were familiar with the term PMS. PMS symptoms were experienced by almost all participants (94%) to different extents. 140 participants (38%) experienced PMS one week before their period. On the other hand, 152 participants (42%) were moderately affected by PMS physical symptoms. 43% of participants rated PMS psychological and behavioral symptoms as moderately severe. The most common PMS symptom, according to 259 female students, was cramping, followed by headache and backache. PMS causes 65.85% of participants to lose concentration during educational activities. 59.56% of the participants claimed PMS causes difficulty at work and in other regular activities. Conclusion: PMS is highly prevalent among female students in Bangladesh. The majority of students experience a lack of concentration on educational activities due to PMS. PMS has an impact on both their personal and professional lives. Personal hygiene, sexual health, and overall awareness about PMS should be promoted more through education and social awareness programs.