Prevalence of Premenstrual Syndrome in Undergraduate MBBS Students and their Work-related Quality of Life

Abstract

Aims & Objectives: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) refers to physical and emotional symptoms that occur in the late luteal phase of menstruation. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is primarily a psychiatric disorder with more severe symptoms as compared to PMS. The main aim of the study is to find the prevalence of PMS and PMDD in undergraduate medical students and its effect of work-related quality of life (WrQOL). Materials & Methods: The study followed a cross-sectional and a prospective design. Students were cross-sectionally assessed with Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool (PSST). Students who screened positive for severe PMS on PSST were asked to keep a prospective record using Daily record of severity of problems scale (DRSP) and WrQOL scale. Results: 228 students participated in the cross-sectional assessment. The prevalence of severe PMS and PMDD in our sample was found to be 29.4% and 6.1% respectively. Students who had medical comorbidities had higher chances of reporting of PMS and PMDD. Of 47 students who agreed for prospective record-keeping on DRSP, 10 students fulfilled the criteria for severe PMS. WrQOL was significantly poorer in students with PMS. Discussion: Though there was significant drop-out in the prospective assessments, the results of the cross-sectional assessments were on expected lines. However, there is a need for more stringent prospective studies on this topic. Conclusion: PMS and PMDD is highly prevalent and often co-occur with medical comorbidities and is associated with poor WrQOL.