Associated Factors and Outcomes of Dysmenorrhea Among Female Nursing Students at King Abdulaziz University

Abstract

Background: Dysmenorrhea is a common menstrual complaint around the world, and it negatively affects women’s quality of life. The present study aims to identify the associated factors of dysmenorrhea and outcomes among female nursing students at King Abdulaziz University (KAU). Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 194 dysmenorrhea undergraduate female nursing students from the Faculty of Nursing at KAU. Self-administered questionnaires were used to obtain relevant data, which was analysed using SPSS version 24. Result: The study found that a heavy menstrual flow increases the severity of dysmenorrhea, while exercising three times per week decreases the severity of dysmenorrhea. A significant association was found between the severity of dysmenorrhea and feelings of inferiority sleep disturbances, depressed mood, decreased social activities and conflicts with others. Conclusion: Dysmenorrhea is a common health concern among young women with negative outcomes, and awareness of the factors associated with dysmenorrhea intensity can help health care professionals provide proper management to relieve or reduce its adverse effects. Additional studies on the factors associated with dysmenorrhea intensity in different populations are also necessary