The Impact of Dysmenorrhea on Quality of Life Among Spanish Female University Students

Abstract

(1) Background: Primary dysmenorrhea, which is characterized by menstrual pain in the absence of a pelvic pathology, is one of the main reasons for gynecological consultation. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of dysmenorrhea in a sample of university students, as well as their quality of life, and to examine the most common methods used for alleviating symptoms. (2) Methods: The participants comprised 305 female university students with a mean age of 20.32 ± 3.19 years who completed a self-report survey comprising sociodemographic, gynecological and lifestyle questions. EuroQol-5 dimensions-5 levels (EQ-5D-5L) was used to measure quality of life. (3) Results: In total, 76% of the sample suffered from dysmenorrhea. Among the students who did not suffer from dysmenorrhea, a significantly greater proportion participated in activities such as jogging or Pilates on a regular basis (several times per week). Concerning quality of life, patients with dysmenorrhea showed significant differences on the pain/discomfort scale and on the total score for perceived quality of life. However, this perception showed no correlation with the VAS (visual analogue scale) pain scale. Additionally, 90.5% of students with dysmenorrhea used pharmacological treatment, and 80% self-medicated. (4) Conclusions: Dysmenorrhea represents a major problem among youth today and the impact on the quality of life (QoL) of patients is evident. Physical activity may alleviate symptoms of dysmenorrhea and this and other complementary treatments should be promoted within health services.

Absenteeism during Menstruation among Nursing Students in Spain

“…Hormonal contraceptives are the second choice of treatment for dysmenorrhea, and in our study, these were only taken by 11.71% of participants. Nonetheless, a reduced prevalence of dysmenorrhea and absenteeism was identified during menstruation in women who did take contraceptives, which is in line with the previous literature, however, this treatment is known to have possible adverse effects and is not accepted by all women [31,32].A number of authors consider the need to study the strategies used for treating menstrual pain and symptoms [5,22]. Although the management of menstruation is influneced by a diversity of contextual factors such as social, cultural, and economical factors, Armour et al highlight the urgent need on a global level to provide greater information on self-care regarding the management of menstruation, as, currently, most women worldwide fail to choose the best self-care option in this matter [31].…”

“…The high rates of absenteeism associated with dysmenorrhea and to an elevated intensity of menstrual pain could be related to an incorrect management of menstruation in Spain. As noted in former studies, most young women with dysmenorrhea do not consult a health professional, relying on self-medication [5,22]. Several authors have found that many young women with dysmenorrhea are able to endure menstrual pain and symptoms, understanding these as a typical aspect of a woman's life, normalizing their own menstrual experiences, even if these entail limitations [27][28][29].…”

“…Many studies have identified how pain can affect people, for example, headaches are known to decrease the academic performance of university students [4]. More concretely, menstrual pain increases absenteeism and decreases academic performance [5,6]. However, most previous studies are based on studying dysmenorrhea alone, while few studies have focused on analyzing other menstrual experiences in depth, such as fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, feeling depressed, sleep disorders, or irritability.…”

The Effect of Micronutrients on Pain Management of Primary Dysmenorrhea: a Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis

“…3,4 Primary dysmenorrhea is considered as one of the main problems in women and in public health so that WHO refers to it as the main cause of chronic pelvic pain. 5 In fact, in addition to its huge economic burden, 6 dysmenorrhea affects different dimensions of life and causes limitations in daily activities 7,8 and low sleep quality, 9,10 as well as negatively affect the patient's mood, lead to depression, stress and anxiety. 8,11,12 Although the main cause of primary dysmenorrhea is not well recognized, most studies show an increase in the levels of prostaglandins E2α (PGE2α), F2α (PGF2α), and leukotriene during menstruation and this, in turn, results in more uterine muscle contractions and cramps.…”

Getting Rid of “Bomb Pushing the Womb”: Dysmenorrhea Management-Mini Review

“…Essential oils can be absorbed via olfaction, through the external skin, internal skin, and ingestion and the applications are divided into inhalation, topical use, and oral use. Song et al [52], Lee et al [56] and Fernández-Martínez et al [3] reported that aromatherapy massage was an effective intervention for reducing dysmenorrhea [3,52,56]. Chinese herbal medicines (CHM) are well-accepted in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea in East Asia, such as China, Korea, and Japan.…”