Prevalence of premenstrual syndrome and associated functional disability among female students of Addis ketema preparatory school, Ethiopia

Abstract

Premenstrual syndrome is a psycho-neuro-endocrine disorder having biological, psychic and social parameters. It is a serious health problem affecting the young females and any women in a reproductive age group. The recurrent nature of this problem has potential impact on the daily lives of women; making a central issue in women well-being. Although it has been widely studied in many countries only limited studies have been conducted in Ethiopia and the study area in particular. To determine the prevalence and severity of premenstrual syndrome and functional disability associated among female students of Addis Ketema preparatory school. Cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence and severity of premenstrual syndrome and associated functional disability among female students. A total of 210 sampled female students were included in the study. The information for the study was collected by a pre-designed self administered questionnaire by reviewing literatures. The diagnosis of premenstrual syndrome was done according to American College of Obstetrics and Genecology premenstrual syndrome clinical management guideline for Obstetrician. Assessment of the severity was determined using Taylor D. premenstrual syndrome scoring technique symptom management. Data analysis was done by SPSS version 19.0 computer statistical soft ware. One hundred eighty female students completed questionnaire making a response rate of 85.7%. one hundred fifty five(86.1%) reported to have experienced premenstrual syndrome, out of which 71 (41.3%) had mild, moderate 47(27.3%), severe 29 (26.9%) and extremely severe (3.5%) forms of premenstrual syndrome. premenstrual syndrome for most of them started at their age of menarche (45.9%). 73% reported that the symptoms have interfered and decreased their daily activity. Eighty nine (49.4%) reported to have changed their diet (10.5%) used analgesics and exercise (3.9%) as coping mechanism to relive the symptoms. Statistical significant association was observed between occurrence of premenstrual syndrome and academic year (p<0.05). The prevalence of premenstrual syndrome is high among the studied female students. Even though nearly half of them used some form of coping mechanism, the symptoms have interfered their daily activity. There is significant association between occurrence of premenstrual syndrome and their academic activities. Identifying and providing appropriate medical treatment and counseling for the female students at school clinics needs to be considered. Information education communication on premenstrual syndrome and possible coping method should be provided at schools.