Between love and pain: A qualitative analysis of menstrual distress and romantic relationships

Menstrual distress - the physiological and emotional stress response to menstrual symptoms that are perceived as threatening and difficult to manage - is common among menstruating people and can have a profound negative impact on mental health and well-being. Romantic partners can support dealing with emotional and physical stress, yet their role in dealing with menstrual distress specifically remains underexplored. Adopting a biopsychosocial perspective, this qualitative study aims to shed light on the experience of menstrual distress within romantic relationships. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 27 individuals (aged 19-59 years, living in Austria), who were in romantic relationships (n = 23 heterosexual, n = 3 homosexual/queer, n = 1 unlabelled) and who self-reported to have experienced menstrual distress. Indeed, romantic partners play a crucial role in shaping both the impact of and coping mechanisms for menstrual distress. Due to the intimate nature of romantic relationships, partners influence experiences of menstrual distress, whether actively engaging with the topic or not. Supportive relationships fostering authenticity, communication and teamwork enhance coping, whereas negative partner responses can perpetuate negative stereotypes, stigma and symptom trivialisation. To enhance individuals' and couples' well-being, educational campaigns should raise menstrual health awareness early, and couples may benefit from guidance in managing the challenges effectively.