PREVALENCE OF PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME AMONG YOUNG WOMEN

Abstract

Introduction: Pre menstrual syndrome is a condition which could be disabling due to its physical and psychological symptoms. More than 200 symptoms have been described for this condition. Various diagnostic algorithms have been developed for their diagnosis and the varieties of treatment modalities too have been described.

Materials and Methods: This was an observational study on 100 medical students to look for the prevalence of pre menstrual syndrome through a symptom diary for 2 months and followed by a detailed analysis of the prevalence, symptoms and severity of the symptoms.

Results: PMS was found in 63% of the subjects. 85% of them had physical symptoms, 81% had psychological symptoms and 75% had reactionary symptoms to environment. Severe and extreme symptoms were found in around 8% of patients. Commonest symptoms found were Anger (86%), Reduction in productivity (79%), Less interest in usual activities and symptom of breast tenderness (Each 74%), anxiety (66%), increased sleep (65%) and a feeling of lethargy (61%). There was a great overlap of symptoms.

Conclusion: PMS is a condition found to have a wide variation in its prevalence across the globe. Various other environmental and epidemiological influences that can affect the occurrence and severity of the condition must be studied so that effective interventions may be initiated in the treatment of this condition.