Premenstrual symptoms and lifestyle Factors Associated with it among Medical students

Abstract

Background: Premenstrual symptoms are a constellation of somatic and emotional symptoms commonly affecting women in reproductive age group. Apart from causing physical, emotional distress, they can influence daily activities and reduce productivity of women. Objective: To determine the prevalence of premenstrual symptoms and lifestyle factors associated with it among medical students. Methodology: This cross sectional study was conducted among 209 medical students and interns of a private medical college. A self- dministered questionnaire was used to assess menstrual history, premenstrual symptoms and diet. Physical activity was assessed using International Physical Activity Questionnaire.Results: The median (IQR) age of the study participants was 21(20, 22). Feeling of tiredness (30.6%) and presence of mood swings (25.4%) reported by at least a quarter of the study participants were the major somatic symptom and emotional/behavioral symptoms respectively. On univariate and multivariate analysis,coffee consumption was positively associated with premenstrual symptoms [Adjusted OR=1.85, 95% CI =1.02-3.34, p=0.042]. Though statistically not significant, a higher proportion of those with premenstrual symptoms were physically inactive as compared to those without symptoms (39.7% Vs. 35.2%).Conclusion: Excessive caffeine intake and physical inactivity can have an influence on premenstrual symptoms. Adopting healthy lifestyle could positively help the medical students to reduce the impact of premenstrual symptoms on their social activities and interpersonal relationships and increase their productivity.