Prevalene of perimenstrual symptoms.

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Women's Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Perimenstrual symptoms (PMS) affect many women, but prevalence and influencing factors require further investigation in diverse populations.
• Understanding PMS prevalence is crucial for developing targeted health interventions and support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of perimenstrual symptoms (PMS) in a free-living US women population.
• To investigate associations between PMS prevalence and parity, contraceptive status, menstrual cycle characteristics, and demographic variables.

Main Methods:

• A study was conducted in five southeastern US city neighborhoods with diverse demographics.
• 179 women aged 18-35 were interviewed using the Moos Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ).
• Data collected included demographic information, parity, contraceptive use, and menstrual cycle characteristics.

Main Results:

• Common PMS included weight gain, headache, skin disorders, cramps, anxiety, fatigue, painful breasts, irritability, mood swings, depression, and tension (prevalence >30%).
• Severe symptoms were less common, except for cramps (17%) and irritability (12%).
• Factors like parity, oral contraceptive use, age, education, and income were negatively associated with PMS, while IUD use, longer/heavier menstrual flow, and predictable cycles were positively associated.

Conclusions:

• PMS is highly prevalent among US women, with varying symptom intensity.
• Specific demographic and menstrual cycle factors significantly influence PMS prevalence, highlighting the need for personalized healthcare approaches.