Prevalence and Impact of Dysmenorrhea on Quality of Life Among Medical Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Dysmenorrhea is prevalent in approximately 85% of women who obtain medical degrees and negatively impacts the quality of life (QoL) of females attending medical school. This study examines its prevalence and impact among medical students at Chettinad Medical College.

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of dysmenorrhea and its impact on quality of life among female medical students, and to evaluate how dysmenorrhea severity affects academic performance, daily living activities, and demographic/menstrual characteristics.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed on 200 female medical students at Chettinad Medical College. Participants completed a self-administered questionnaire covering demographics, menstrual cycle history, characteristics of dysmenorrhea (pain intensity via VAS), and quality of life (adapted WHOQOL-BREF). Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical analyses with SPSS version 23.0.

Results: Dysmenorrhea had an 85.5% prevalence rate. Most affected women experienced moderate (59.6%) pain intensity and cramps (71.9%), peaking on the first day of menstruation. Half (52.0%) missed college and 86% reported impaired concentration. The mean overall QoL impact score was 3.4±0.8 on a 5-point scale. A strong positive correlation was found between dysmenorrhea severity and QoL impact (r=0.72; p<0.001). Significant associations existed with family history of dysmenorrhea (p<0.01) and premenstrual symptoms (p<0.05).

Conclusions: Dysmenorrhea is a highly prevalent and debilitating condition among female medical students, causing significant morbidity, poor academic performance, and reduced well-being. There is an urgent need for educational programs, accessible health services, and supportive academic policies to address this growing public health concern in medical education.