Premenstrual syndrome and lifestyle: Development and validity of a Premenstrual Syndrome Quality-Of-Life Scale

Abstract

BackgroundPremenstrual Syndrome significantly affects young women's quality of life, encompassing psychological and clinical symptoms. The aim of this study is to develop a comprehensive and reliable Premenstrual Syndrome Quality of Life Scale and identify factors that affect women's quality of life. MethodsA methodological and descriptive study was conducted to develop a Premenstrual Syndrome Quality of Life Scale in three phases. Initially, a literature review and qualitative interviews were conducted to generate an item pool. In the second phase, the validity and reliability of the scale were tested. Exploratory Factor Analysis, Confirmatory Factor Analysis were used to confirm the validity and Cronbach's Alpha coefficient was calculated for reliability. In the final phase, the psychometric properties of the scale were evaluated. ResultsA 28-item scale was developed in phase one. In Phase two 260 women were participated. Factor analysis confirmed the scale's validity with a KMO measure of 0.837 and significant Bartlett's Sphericity Test (p < 0.000). Confirmatory factor analysis indicated a good fit for the scale. Reliability analysis showed high reliability for the overall scale and subscales. Phase three included 212 participants diagnosed with premenstrual syndrome. There are no significant correlations between age, menarche age, and overall PMS Quality-of-Life scores. However, higher PMS severity and urban living negatively impact quality of life (p < 0.05). ConclusionsThe Premenstrual Syndrome Quality of Life Scale provides a holistic assessment of premenstrual syndrome impact on women's lives, addressing physical, emotional, and social dimensions.