Distribution and Determinants of Dysmenorrhea in Women of Reproductive Age Group in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Chennai

Abstract

Background: Dysmenorrhea, also known as menstrual pain is a prevalent and debilitating condition affecting women of reproductive age group. The condition can significantly disrupt day to day activities and lead to absenteeism from school or work. (1)

Objectives: The objective of the study was to find out the prevalence of dysmenorrhea among women of reproductive age group, the identification of determinants of dysmenorrhea and to describe the symptoms associated with dysmenorrhea and pain relief seeking methods.

Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted at Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, between December 2022 and June 2024 among women of reproductive age group attending out patient department in department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.

Results: 68.08 % % of subjects were suffering from dysmenorrhea. The prevalence of dysmenorrhea was more among subjects in age group 21-30 years, who had attained menarche at 11-13years, those who had cycle length <21 days, those who had irregular cycles, those who had menstruation for 3–6 days, those who had heavy menstrual flow, those who were nulliparous, those who had a family history of dysmenorrhea. Age group,length of cycles and parity status were found to have a significant association with dysmenorrhea.

Conclusions: The prevalence of dysmenorrhea in the our study was more compared to other studies. Age group, length of menstrual cycles and parity status was found to have a significant association with dysmenorrhea. Lower back pain was the most common physical symptom and over the counter analgesics were the most common method sought for pain relief.