The Prevalence and Effects of Premenstrual Syndrome among Female Health Science Students in Eritrea
Eyob Azaria,
Meron Mehari,
Nahom Kiros,
Filmon Woldu,
Awet T esfay,
Fisseha Solomon,
Furtuna Weldebruk
Issue:
Volume 2, Issue 1, February 2016
Pages:
1-5
Received:
28 August 2016
Accepted:
12 October 2016
Published:
28 October 2016
DOI:
10.11648/j.ejcbs.20160201.11
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Abstract: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a combination of physical and behavioral symptoms that occur in women which can adversely affect their social interaction, educational performance and emotional well-being. The objective of the study was to assess the prevalence of Premenstrual syndrome and its effects on the academic and social aspects of students in Asmara College of Health sciences. A cross sectional study was conducted among 240 female students of Asmara College of Health Sciences from January to March 2016 in Asmara, Eritrea. Respondents were selected using stratified systematic random sampling method. Data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences Version 20. The criterion proposed by the International Classification of Diseases 10 (ICD 10) was used for diagnosis and performance indicators were employed to measure the prevalence and effects of PMS. The results of the study show that the prevalence of PMS was found to be 17.5%. 96.5% had experienced at least one premenstrual symptom. Out of the students diagnosed with PMS, 78.6% reported their concentration in class was affected, 90.5% had stopped studying and class missing was reported by 45% of the students. Poor social interaction was also reported with their family (66.7%) and friends (40.5%). PMS affected the ability of performing home chores in 83% of respondents and 57.1% socially isolated themselves due to its symptoms. There was no significant association of any demographic characteristics with PMS. The effect of PMS with social indicators such as impaired interaction with family members and friends, inability to perform chores and social isolation were statistically significant (CI 95%, p<0.05). All academic effect indicators such as loss of concentration in class, stopping studying and missing classes were significantly associated with PMS (CI 95%, p<0.05). However there was no significant association of PMS with scoring lower grade and applying for academic withdrawal. In conclusion, although the prevalence of PMS was relatively low, it was seen to affect students negatively in their academic activities and social lives.
Abstract: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a combination of physical and behavioral symptoms that occur in women which can adversely affect their social interaction, educational performance and emotional well-being. The objective of the study was to assess the prevalence of Premenstrual syndrome and its effects on the academic and social aspects of students in...
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