Menstrual Distress Questionnaire Research Articles

Effects of E4/DRSP on self-reported physical and emotional premenstrual and menstrual symptoms: data from the phase 3 clinical trial in Europe and Russia

Purpose To describe the effects of estetrol (E4) 15 mg/drospirenone (DRSP) 3 mg on physical and emotional premenstrual and menstrual symptoms. Materials and Methods We used Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ) data from a phase-3 trial (NCT02817828) in Europe and Russia with participants (18 − 50 years) using E4/DRSP for up to 13 cycles. We assessed mean changes in MDQ-t-scores from baseline to end of treatment in premenstrual (4 days before most recent flow) and menstrual (most recent flow) scores for 4 MDQ domains in starters and switchers (use of hormonal contraception in prior 3 months) and performed a shift analysis on individual symptoms within each domain. Results Of 1,553 treated participants, 1,398(90.0%), including 531(38%) starters, completed both MDQs. Starters reported improvements for premenstrual Pain (−1.4), Water Retention (−3.3) and Negative Affect (−2.5); and for menstrual Pain (−3.5), Water Retention (−3.4), and Negative Affect (−2.7) (all p < 0.01). For switchers, no changes were significant except an increase in premenstrual (+1.0, p = 0.02) and menstrual (+1.5, p = 0.003) Water Retention. We observed a change in symptom intensity in >40% of participants for Cramps, Backache and Fatigue (domain Pain), Painful or Tender Breast and Swelling (domain Water Retention) and Mood Swings and Irritability (domain Negative Affect). Conclusion E4/DRSP starters experienced significant improvements in the domains Pain, Water Retention and Negative Affect particularly benefiting those with more severe baseline symptoms. Switchers showed minimal changes.

EFFECTIVENESS OF SACRAL RELEASE TECHNIQUE COMBINED WITH CONVENTIONAL PHYSIOTHERAPY FOR MANAGING DYSMENORRHEA: A CASE STUDY

Background: Dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps) is a common gynecological condition with painful menstruation as its main symptom. It negatively influences women’s quality of life and hampers their productivity and activities. While the exact etiology is unknown, increased prostaglandin levels and myofascial trigger points are thought to play a role. This study investigated the effectiveness of combining sacral release technique, a myofascial release therapy, with conventional physiotherapy for treating dysmenorrhea symptoms. Methods: A 23-year-old woman with clinically diagnosed primary dysmenorrhea was treated with a rehabilitation protocol consisting of sacral release technique, deep breathing exercises, and static stretching over the course of her menstrual period. Outcomes were measured pre- and post-intervention using the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MEDI-Q). Results: Subsequently after the intervention all outcome indices indicated significant improvement for the patient. NPRS scores reduced from 6 to 4 indicating less pain intensity while broad MEDI-Q total score went down from 64 to 39 signifying improved menstrual symptoms along with distress due to periods in addition to over-all quality regarding daily living associated with menses. Conclusion: In Conclusion, combining sacral release technique, and traditional physiotherapy methods of deep breathing and stretching were effective in alleviating symptoms of woman during menstrual flow, reducing pain and improving quality of life for the mentioned patient. These findings indicate that having a sacral release along with other modalities may become another intervention in treating dysmenorrhea. Keywords: Dysmenorrhea, sacral release technique, Pain Management, conventional physiotherapy, case study.

Comparing Pilates and Gym Ball Exercises for Primary Dysmenorrhea Management: An Empirical Study.

Primary dysmenorrhea, commonly known as menstrual cramps, is a prevalent gynecological issue that impacts many women in their childbearing age. It manifests as reoccurring, cramp-like lower abdominal pain, usually commencing right prior to or during the menstrual period. These painful sensations can be severe, extending to the lower back and upper thighs can greatly disrupt a woman's daily life and overall well-being. The optimal exercise approach is needed for individuals seeking relief from primary dysmenorrhea, allowing healthcare providers and women themselves to make informed decisions regarding their treatment options. Though many forms of exercise interventions exist in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea,this study aimsto compare two forms of intervention namely pilates and gym ball exercises on pain and menstrual distress among women with Primary Dysmenorrhea. This experimental comparative study was carried out with 30 young female participants over a 12-week period. Participant recruitment was done through a simple random sampling method. The criteria of inclusion encompassed young females aged 17-25 years, those in good health, and those experiencing primary dysmenorrhea. Exclusion criteria included secondary dysmenorrhea, medication use, polycystic ovarian syndrome, bleeding disorders, positive pregnancy tests, breastfeeding, and other medical conditions. Group A received Pilates exercises, while Group B underwent Gym ball exercises. The assessment of both groups' menstrual distress levels was conducted using the Moos Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ) and pain scores using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). In the statistical analysis, Group A (Pilates Exercises) showed a significantly lower mean value (2.60) on the VAS compared to Group B (Swiss Ball Exercises) (5.46), with both groups experiencing a notable reduction in post-test scores (p ≤ 0.001). Additionally, on the MOOS MDQ score, Group A (Pilates Exercises) achieved a lower mean value (79.33) compared to Group B (Swiss Ball Exercises) (103.26), with both groups demonstrating a significant decrease in post-test scores (p ≤ 0.001). In conclusion, this study underscores the significance of exercise therapy, particularly Pilates exercises, as a holistic approach to addressing primary dysmenorrhea, improving physical well-being, and enhancing the overall quality of life.

Changes in menstrual symptoms and work productivity after checklist-based education for premenstrual syndrome: an 8-month follow-up of a single-arm study in Japan.

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is prevalent among women of reproductive age, but most do not seek medical advice. We hypothesized that building PMS awareness could promote medical help-seeking for PMS and thus reduce menstrual symptoms and improve work productivity. In January 2020, women aged between 25 and 44years, having paid work, and not currently consulting with an obstetrics and gynecology doctor (n = 3090) responded to the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ), the Premenstrual Symptoms screening tool, and the World Health Organisation Health and Work Performance Questionnaire. In addition, they received checklist-based online education for PMS. Of 3090 participants, 2487 (80.5%) participated in a follow-up survey in September 2020. We conducted multiple logistic regression analyses and text analyses to explore factors that encouraged and discouraged medical help-seeking. We also evaluated changes in menstrual symptoms and work productivity, using generalized estimating equations with interactions between the severity of PMS, help-seeking, and time. During the follow-up period, 4.9% of the participants (121/2487) sought medical help. Those having high annual income (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.07, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.21-3.53) and moderate-to-severe PMS (aOR = 2.27, 95% CI: 1.49-3.46) were more likely to have sought medical help. Those who did not seek medical help despite their moderate-to-severe PMS reported normalization of their symptoms (36%), time constraints (33%), and other reasons for not seeking medical help. Participants with moderate-to-severe PMS who had sought medical help showed a significant improvement of - 8.44 points (95% CI: - 14.73 to - 2.15 points) in intermenstrual MDQ scores during the follow-up period. However, there were no significant improvements in premenstrual and menstrual MDQ scores or absolute presenteeism. Medical help-seeking alleviated intermenstrual symptoms in women with moderate-to-severe PMS, but only a small proportion of them sought medical help after PMS education. Further research should be conducted to benefit the majority of women who are reluctant to seek medical help, including the provision of self-care information. UMIN Clinical Trials Registry number: UMIN000038917.

Menstruation-Related Symptoms and Associated Factors among Female University Students in Vietnam

Menstruation and menstrual-related symptoms, stress, and lifestyle factors can significantly affect the health and academic lives of university students. This study aimed to explore menstruation-related symptoms and associated factors among female university students in Vietnam. This study used a cross-sectional design. Data from 349 students were analyzed for menstrual and menstrual-related symptoms using the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ). We found that 92.0% and 98.9% of the students had menstrual-related symptoms in the pre- and intra-menstrual phases, respectively. The most common symptoms in each phase were backache (71.1%) in the pre-menstrual phase and fatigue (90.3%) in the intra-menstrual phase. Menstruation-related symptoms were associated with stress. These results contribute significantly to our understanding of menstrual health among Vietnamese university students. These findings imply the need to strengthen support systems for university students, especially by providing proper information about menstruation and managing stress.

Translation and validation of the Chinese version of the menstrual distress questionnaire

Background The Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ) is a commonly used questionnaire that assesses various symptoms and distress associated with the menstrual cycle in women. However, the questionnaire has not been completely translated into Chinese with rigorous reliability and validity testing. Methods This study translated the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire Form Cycle (MDQC) from English into Chinese: MDQCC in two stages. First, it was translated forward and backward using Jones’ model; second, to test the validity and reliability, 210 Chinese-speaking women were recruited through online announcements and posters posted between June 2019 and May 2020. Expert validity, construct validity, convergent validity, and factorial validity were determined using content validity index (CVI), intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), composite reliability (CR), and exploratory factor analysis, respectively. For concurrent criterion validity, MDQCC score was compared with three existing pain scales. Reliability was evaluated using internal consistency across items and two-week test-retest reliability over time. Results The CVI for content validity was .92. Item-CVI for expert validities among the 46 items ranged from .50 − 1; scale-CVI for the eight subscales, from .87 − 1; ICC, from .650 − .897; and CRs, from .303 − .881. Pearson correlation coefficients between MDQCC and short-form McGill pain questionnaire, present pain intensity, and visual analog scale scores were .640, .519, and .575, respectively. Cronbach’s α for internal consistency was satisfactory (.932). ICC for test-retest reliability was .852 for the entire MDQCC. Conclusion MDQCC was valid and reliable for Mandarin Chinese-speaking women. It can be used to evaluate female psychiatric symptoms related to the menstrual cycle in future work.

Efficacy of Homoeopathic Ultra High Dilutions in management of Dysmenorrhoea: A Review

Introduction: Dysmenorrhea, or painful menstruation, affects a substantial portion of women worldwide, with prevalence rates reaching up to 67 to 90% among young women. This condition, characterized by intense lower abdominal cramps and associated symptoms, has a significant impact on women's quality of life. Conventional treatments like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have limitations, leading many to explore alternative therapies such as homeopathy. Objective: This article reviews the effects of homeopathic treatments on dysmenorrhea patients and examines seven studies conducted in this context. Methods: Studies which meet the specific required criteria; involving dysmenorrhea and Homoeopathy and being published in peer-reviewed English-language scientific journals were only included. Various parameters, such as disease intensity scales, the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ), Pain Rating Scale (PRS), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and quality of life (QoL) using the World Health Organization Quality of Life: Brief Version (WHOQOL-BREF) scale, numerical rating scale (NRS), and verbal multidimensional scoring system (VMSS), were evaluated. The results before and after treatment with homoeopathic high dilutions have been compared and summarized. Results: Clinical analysis and statistical data of reviewed studies reveal homeopathic high dilutions as effective for Primary Dysmenorrhea, reducing pain (VAS), improving quality of life (WHOQOL), and demonstrating safety, emphasizing their holistic potential.&#x0D;

A cross-sectional study of the relationship between premenstrual syndrome and missed nursing care among female nursing staff

PurposePremenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a cyclical psychosomatic disorder prevalent among women of reproductive age. However, research on the potential impact of PMS on routine nursing schedules and activities is limited. This study aims to identify the prevalence of PMS among female nursing staff and to examine the relationship between PMS and missed nursing care (MNC). MethodBetween November 1, 2022, and April 30, 2023, this study was conducted among female nursing staff working in nine inpatient departments at Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center. This study used a cross-sectional design. The participants were recruited through convenience sampling. Data were collected using the standardized Menstrual Distress Questionnaire, the Oncology Missed Nursing Care self-rating scale, and a sociodemographic questionnaire. One-way analysis of variance, Fisher's least significant difference test for post-hoc comparisons, and Spearman's correlation coefficient were utilized for data analysis. A trend test was also performed to explore patterns in the severity of PMS and MNC over time. ResultsWe collected a total of 224 questionnaires, with 154 (68.7%) female nursing staff reporting PMS. The most common symptoms were low back pain (91.1%), abdominal discomfort (90.6%), cold hands and feet (87.1%), and lethargy (87.1%). Moreover, 91.5% of the 224 female nursing staff reported at least one MNC activity. The nursing activities most frequently missed or left incomplete were liquid intake and output monitoring as ordered (43.3%), medication administration within 30 min before or after the scheduled time (43.3%), and electrocardiogram monitoring as ordered (42.9%). “Abdominal discomfort” from the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire was significantly correlated with the majority of MNC activities (p < 0.001). ConclusionsThis study provides evidence for a strong association between PMS and MNC among female nursing staff, suggesting that administrators should take the premenstrual conditions of female nursing staff into consideration. It is necessary to provide appropriate understanding and support to mitigate the impact on patient care and safety.

Heart Rate Variability (HRV) as a Marker of Improved Autonomic Function in PMS: A Homeopathy Intervention-Based Single Blind Randomized Control Study

Abstract Introduction: Pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) is a prevalent condition contributing to a spectrum of physical and psychological symptoms during the menstrual cycle. Heart rate variability (HRV) stands as a potential tool to delve into the autonomic nervous system’s intricacies. This study aims to bridge this knowledge gap by investigating the relationship between HRV and PMS while concurrently evaluating the efficacy of individualised homoeopathic interventions in managing PMS. Materials and Methods: A prospective case–control study was conducted from August 2020 to April 2021, involving 37 young females aged 16–45 years with diagnosed PMS. Participants were selected through purposive sampling, meeting the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-IV criteria and were randomised into the case (homoeopathy intervention) and control (placebo) groups. Individualised homoeopathic medicines were administered to the case group, while the control group received a placebo. Both groups were followed for 6 months. Autonomic function was assessed using HRV, employing NICOMON, and clinical improvement was evaluated through the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ). Statistical analysis included paired t-tests and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Results: Out of the initially screened 37 subjects, 31 completed the study. The homoeopathy group (n = 15) demonstrated a highly significant improvement in MDQ scores compared to the placebo (n = 16) group (P &lt; 0.00001). HRV analysis revealed significant increases in total power, low-frequency, high-frequency, root mean square of successive normal-to-normal interval differences, NN50 and pNN50%, indicating enhanced autonomic modulation and parasympathetic dominance in the homoeopathy group (P &lt; 0.001, P = 0.006, P = 0.006, P = 0.039, P &lt; 0.001 and P = 0.013, respectively). The miasmatic analysis highlighted an 80% prevalence of sycotic miasm in the PMS cases. Conclusion: Individualised homoeopathic interventions resulted in substantial improvements in autonomic function, as evidenced by HRV metrics, and clinical symptoms in PMS patients. The study sheds light on the potential therapeutic impact of homoeopathy in achieving autonomic balance and relieving PMS symptoms. While acknowledging the study’s limitations, including sample size, these findings suggest avenues for further research in this domain.

Cognition and Psychomotor Performance in Premenstrual Syndrome with Negative Emotions

Background: Women with premenstrual syndrome are known to experience high negative emotions which is known to drastically affect cognition and psychomotor performance thereby impairing their executive function. Objective: To assess the relationship between cognition and psychomotor skill with self-reported symptoms of negative emotions like depression, anxiety and stress in women with different grades of premenstrual syndrome. Methodology: Study was conducted among 100 female nursing students in the age group 18 -20 years. Data collection tool included a questionnaire of demographic and menstruation characteristics, Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ), and Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale Questionnaire (DASS). Cognition and psychomotor performance were assessed based on reaction time (both visual &amp; auditory) using PC1000Hz Reaction timer. The study received ethical approval from the Institutional Ethical Committee. Every participant gave their informed written consent before participating in the study. Results: Among the 100 female students, 50 each belonged to mild and moderate PMS category. Independent t test revealed a significantly high DASS scores and reaction time scores (both visual &amp; auditory) in mild when compared to moderate PMS category. A favourable association between the severity of PMS and depression, anxiety and stress scores (DASS), and reaction time (RT) scores was discovered using the Pearson correlation test, with p significant at 0.01. Additionally, there was a substantial positive association between DASS scores and RT duration. This suggests that, as there is an increase in the severity of PMS, there was an increase in the negative emotional states scores and increase in the RT duration (both visual and auditory) thereby proving a decline in cognition and psychomotor execution. Conclusion: The results demonstrated that, woman with PMS had high negative emotion effects leading to decline in cognition and psychomotor execution which is a need of the hour to look into their lifestyle modification and treatment modality so as enhance the executive performance.

Menstruation-related symptoms are associated with physical activity and midpoint of sleep: a pilot study.

Menstruation-related symptoms (MRSs) significantly impact women's health and contribute to economic burdens worldwide. Current interventions, primarily pharmacological ones, have limitations and side effects that underscore the need for alternative management strategies. This study explores the association between MRSs and lifestyle factors, specifically physical activity and sleep timing across menstrual cycle phases, to inform non-pharmacological intervention development. Fourteen female students from Ritsumeikan University, Japan, with regular menstrual cycles (25-38 days), not on hormonal treatment or engaged in shift work, participated in this observational study. Using a Fitbit Inspire 2, total daily energy expenditure (TDEE) and sleep timing were monitored over a complete cycle. Menstrual cycle phases were defined based on ovulation day, predicted using home luteinizing hormone tests. Participants completed daily electronic questionnaires rating MRSs using a modified menstrual distress questionnaire. Data were analyzed using a generalized linear mixed model with a gamma distribution and logarithmic link function, examining the relationship of TDEE and the midpoint of sleep time (MS time) with MRS severity. The following observations were noted: first, MRS severity, except for behavioral change symptoms, significantly increased during the menstrual and luteal phases compared to the follicular phase. Second, delayed MS time was associated with reduced pain, concentration symptoms, water retention, and negative affect during the menstrual phase and reduced negative affect during the luteal phase. Finally, an increase in TDEE was associated with reduced concentration symptoms, autonomic reaction symptoms, and negative affect during the menstrual and luteal phases and reduced water retention only during the luteal phase. This study provides insights into the relationship between MRSs and TDEE/MS time, suggesting potential non-therapeutic approaches for symptom management, though further research is needed to substantiate these findings for practical applications.

Lactobacillus paragasseri OLL2809 Improves Premenstrual Psychological Symptoms in Healthy Women: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study

Lactobacillus paragasseri OLL2809 has been shown to ameliorate stress. This study employed a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group design to assess the efficacy of continuous ingestion of OLL2809 for managing menstrual symptoms in healthy women. Eighty healthy adult women aged 25–40 years who experienced premenstrual and menstrual symptoms were randomly assigned to either the OLL2809 or placebo group (n = 40 each) and ingested tablets containing OLL2809 or placebo for three menstrual cycles. The OLL2809 group exhibited a significantly greater change in premenstrual ‘arousal’ scores on the menstrual distress questionnaire compared to the placebo group after the three menstrual cycles. Specifically, changes in the ‘activity’ subfactor were significantly higher in the OLL2809 group than in the placebo group. Additionally, the OLL2809 group reported significantly lower premenstrual irritability on the visual analog scale than the placebo group. These results suggest that OLL2809 may contribute to enhancing the quality of life of women.

The Changes in Menstrual and Menstrual-Related Symptoms among Japanese Female University Students: A Prospective Cohort Study from Three Months to Nine Months after Admission.

Menstrual and menstrual-related symptoms can significantly impact an individual's physical and psychological health. Understanding how these symptoms evolve over time is crucial to provide appropriate support and healthcare services to young women. This study aimed to investigate changes in menstrual and menstrual-related symptoms among first-year female university students. A prospective longitudinal design was used to compare the symptom profiles between two time points (three and nine months after admission). Out of 100 female university students, 30 responses were analyzed. Data on menstrual and menstrual-related symptoms were collected using standardized questionnaires focusing on menstrual status and the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ); no notable changes occurred between the time points. Approximately half reported having irregular menstruation during the three time periods. Among the sub-scales, premenstrual "impaired concentration" showed a tendency to be lower, whereas menstrual "water retention" tended to be higher in timepoint 2 compared to timepoint 1. "Distractible" was found to be significantly lower in timepoint 2 compared to timepoint 1. There was a significant association between a sleep duration of <7 h and worsened MDQ scores. These findings may underscore the importance of providing comprehensive lifestyle and menstrual education to new university students, along with access to appropriate medical care.

Clinical Observation on Auricular Acupressure for Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Study Protocol for a Randomized Clinical Trial.

The objective of this study is to evaluate the immediate and time-dependent effects of AA in treating PD and assess its safety. This study is a randomized, single-blinded, controlled trial that will enroll 92 patients in a 1:1 allocation ratio. Patients will be assigned to either the treatment group (n=46) or the control group (n=46). During the first menstrual period, the treatment group will receive AA treatment, while the control group will receive sham AA treatment for 7 days. The second menstrual period will serve as the follow-up period. The primary outcome measure is the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score 30 min after the first treatment. Secondary outcome measures include the VAS score immediately after the first treatment, onset time of analgesic effect, duration of pain, extra dosing rate of ibuprofen, and change of the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ) score. The outcomes will be assessed at baseline, during the intervention period, and during the follow-up period. The study results will provide evidence on the efficacy and safety of AA in managing PD by analyzing its immediate effect, time-effect relationship, and reduction of painkiller use. Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2300069741).

Association Between Premenstrual Tension Syndrome and Menstruation Distress with Physical Activity

This study explores the association between physical and recreational activities, length of menstrual flow and interpersonal bonds with premenstrual tension symptoms and correlation of stress with physical activity levels among women. Analytical study was conducted on 71 Premenstrual Tension Syndrome (PMTS) women with a history of dysmenorrhea and stress presented at least 1-2 weeks premenstrual; reported at least for two consecutive menstrual cycles excluding women with tumors, gynecological and endocrinological disorders. The study was conducted from (May to October 2022) at Basic Health Unit (Vario, Sialkot). A Modified Moos Menstrual Distress questionnaire (MDQ) and a self-designed questionnaire were used to collect the data. Results were analyzed using SPSS software 22 version. Mean age was 24.01±4.062 years (N=53, 74.6%) of participants were unmarried whereas (N=18, 25.44%) were married. Length of menstrual flow days was reported as 3 to 5 days (N= 33, 46.5%). Participants (N=41, 57.7%) had severe PMTS with (N=47, 66.2%) preferring to isolate themselves as interference of the symptoms, (N= 43, 60.6%) had stress eating. Chi-square test was observed for the PMTS symptom of pain with recreational and levels of physical activity (p=0.003 0.05); (p=0.00), Impaired concentration (p=0.001 0.05); (p=0.012) and negative effects (p=0.034 0.05); (p=0.02) whereas no significant association was found for behavior, autonomic reactions and water retention symptoms. Length of menstrual flow (p=0.009) and working activities (p=0.025) were correlated (p-value 0.05 ) with physical activity. However, Spear's man correlation between physical activity level and PMTS-induced stress had a weak correlation (p=0.036). Recreational and active levels of physical activity effectively reduce the severity of premenstrual tension symptoms.

Menstrual Abnormalities in Female International Students in Japan: Changes during Pre-Arrival, Difficult, and Current Periods.

The number of Japan's international students has rapidly increased in the last decade. This study examines the relationship between menstrual abnormalities in cycle and symptoms, stress level, and lifestyle of female international students in Japan across three time periods, namely pre-arrival, difficult, and current time periods. A cross-sectional design was employed, and data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire, including the menstrual distress questionnaire (MDQ), between December 2022 and February 2023. The questionnaire was distributed to 56 female international students from two universities in Japan, and a total of 29 valid responses were collected. We found varying menstrual cycle abnormalities and severity of menstrual symptoms across three time periods, with the difficult period after arrival in Japan displaying the highest symptom severity. Higher stress levels were significantly associated with more severe menstrual symptoms. Lifestyle habits such as alcohol consumption were also linked to menstrual symptoms. The current study emphasizes the importance of providing menstrual education, support, and resources to address international students' unique challenges in managing their menstrual health while studying abroad. By promoting awareness, education, and access to healthcare services, universities may contribute to international students' well-being and academic success.

The menstrual distress questionnaire (MEDI-Q): reliability and validity of the English version

Background Menstrual cycle has a significant impact on women’s health from different perspectives, both physically and psychologically. The assessment of menstrual-related distress is of pivotal clinical interest, especially in women with chronic exposure to abnormal bleeding or pain. The Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MEDI-Q) is a new tool originally developed in Italian that comprehensively evaluates menstrual-related distress. Objective To validate the English version of the MEDI-Q in an English-speaking population. Methods The study consisted of two phases: an initial translation phase of the original Italian version of the MEDI-Q, and a data collection phase to validate the new English version among 288 native English-speaking women. Results The English version of MEDI-Q showed excellent psychometric properties, with high internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.84) and test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.95). Construct validity was supported by significant correlations between MEDI-Q scores and scores on measures of psychological distress and premenstrual symptoms. Conclusions The English version of the MEDI-Q is a valid and reliable instrument for the assessment of menstrual distress and its impact on psychological well-being. This tool can be utilized in research and clinical settings to comprehensively investigate the impact of menstruation on various populations, identify and monitor menstruation-related disorders promptly and effectively, and to evaluate the effectiveness of targeted treatments for menstrual distress.

English

Menstruation is an event that signifies females’ official entry into puberty. An alarming number of females experience pain and other uncomfortable symptoms. Most females do not report their symptoms, as most believe this is an expected part of menstruation. This study examined whether menstrual distress contributed to absenteeism in females at a mid-sized university, the average number of class days missed due to dysmenorrhea, and the specific type of symptoms experienced. The Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ)-Form C was utilized to obtain information regarding symptoms experienced during the menstrual cycle at three intervals: most recent flow, four days before, and for the remainder of the cycle. Findings revealed a statistically significant small positive correlation between class absence and four days for the most recent flow and a small positive correlation between class absence for the beginning of the cycle and for the remainder of the cycle.

The Relationship between Vaginismus, Dysmenorrhea, Social support, and Tokophobia with Mediating Role of Childbirth Self-Efficacy

Background and Objective: Tokophobia is a manifestation of severe anxiety that causes fear for women. As a result, women tend to avoid having children and pregnancy due to their fear of childbirth, despite their great interest in having children and the beauty of motherhood. The present study aimed to examine the relationship between Vaginismus, Dysmenorrhea, and social support and tokophobia through the mediation of childbirth self-efficacy.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: The present study was a cross-sectional descriptive correlational study. The statistical population of the study consisted of all pregnant women referred to Taleghani Hospital. Out of the population, 146 pregnant women were selected as the research sample using the availability sampling technique. Research data were collected using the Tokophobia Questionnaire (2021), Multidimensional Vaginal Penetration Disorder Questionnaire (MVPDQ), Moos Menstrual Distress Questionnaire, Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), and Lowe's Childbirth Self-Efficacy Questionnaire. The collected data were then analyzed using the Smart PLS software and statistical methods of correlation and path analysis.&#x0D; Findings: The results showed that there was a significant relationship between, vaginismus with child birth self-efficacy (B=0.341, t=4.145, p0. 05) .&#x0D; Conclusion: According to the fitting indices of the model, it can be concluded that the&#x0D; tokophobia model has an weak fit on the basis of vaginismus, dysmenorrhea, and social support and mediating role of child birth self-efficacy

Effects of auricular acupressure on dysmenorrhea: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Auricular acupressure (AA) is widely used in treatment of dysmenorrhea, but the safety and efficacy of auricular acupressure on dysmenorrhoea are still lack of evidence-based basis. The purpose of meta-analysis was to evaluate the effects of auricular acupressure on dysmenorrhea. A systematic search was conducted in six electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CINAHL), Weipu (CQVIP), China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wanfang databases, to retrieve studies published from the inception dates to June 10, 2022. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated the effectiveness of AA on dysmenorrhea were identified. The data extraction and quality assessment of the included studies were performed by two reviewers independently. Outcomes were abstracted to determine the effect measure by using mean differences (MD), standardized mean differences (SMD), or odds ratio (OR) from a random effects model. Cure rate, total effective rate, and visual analogue scale (VAS) were described as primary outcomes; Short-form Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQs), symptom scores, serum nitric oxide (NO) level, and adverse events were recorded as secondary outcomes. Thirty-five RCTs involving 3960 participants were included in this study. Our findings indicated that, overall, AA was associated with a significant benefit in cured rate (OR = 1.95, 95%CI: [1.34, 2.83], P=0.0004, I2 = 75%), total effective rate (OR = 3.58, 95%CI: [2.92, 4.39], P<0.00001, I2 = 67%), VAS score (MD = -1.45, 95%CI: [-1.73, -1.17], P<0.00001, I2 = 67%), and symptom scores compared to the control group (SMD = -0.85, 95%CI: [-1.28, -0.43], P<0.0001, I2 = 91%). However, no difference in serum NO (SMD = 0.77, 95%CI: [-0.39, 1.92], P = 0.19, I2 = 89%) and MDQs (SMD = -0.58, 95%CI: [-1.26, 0.10], P = 0.10, I2 = 79%) was found between the two groups. Furthermore, subgroup analysis results indicated that AA showed significant superiorities in increasing cured rate and total effective rate, and reducing VAS score and symptom scores when compared to analgesics and non-intervention. Moreover, AA presented the same superiorities when used as an adjunctive strategy to other therapy. However, these benefits were not detected in AA used alone when compared to the therapies, including Chinese herbs, acupuncture, external application of Chineseherbal medicine, moxibustion, auricular needle, and health education. Overall, AA, as a potential safety therapy, is effective for the management of dysmenorrhea, such as increasing cured rate, total effective rate, VAS, and symptom scores. Nevertheless, AA showed no significant improvement in serum NO and MDQs. It is furtherly found that AA used alone is superior to analgesics and non-intervention regarding cured rate, total effective rate, VAS, and symptom scores. Furthermore, the same superiorities are observed when AA serves as an adjunctive strategy to other therapy. However, AA alone has little effect on them compared to other therapies, and there is no definite conclusion on the benefits of AA compared to placebo for patients with dysmenorrhea. Rigorous RCTs with blind method and placebo control are warranted to confirm these findings. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42022338524.