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Survey study, 2017

How common are PMS and PMDD among Japanese medical students?

Of 147 Japanese medical students, 37 (25.2%) had PMS and 13 (8.8%) had PMDD. More sixth-year students received treatment than third-year students.

Early or limited evidence 147 medical students (108 third-year, 65 sixth-year) at Tokyo Women's Medical University in Japan

What they did

Researchers gave questionnaires to 108 third-year and 65 sixth-year medical students at Tokyo Women's Medical University. The questionnaire was based on diagnostic criteria. Researchers also asked whether students had received medication or non-medication treatment.

What they found

147 students returned completed questionnaires (84.9% response rate). 13 students (8.8%) met criteria for PMDD and 37 (25.2%) met criteria for PMS. 11 students (7.5%) had no symptoms before or during their periods. Among third-year students, 27.1% received medication treatment and 22.4% received non-medication treatment. Among sixth-year students, 45.2% received medication treatment and 45.2% received non-medication treatment.

What it means for you

PMS and PMDD are common among Japanese medical students. More advanced students sought treatment than earlier students. We cannot tell from this study whether sixth-year students had worse symptoms or simply knew more about treatment options.

25.2%

Students with PMS

8.8%

Students with PMDD

147

Questionnaires completed

About the study

Original title
A Questionnaire Study on the Prevalence of Premenstrual Syndrome, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, and Related Coping Mechanisms among Female Medical Students
Authors
Jinko Yokota, Azusa Shinozaki, Toshiko Kamo et al.
Journal
DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals)
Year
2017
Study design
Survey study
Participants
147
Open access
Yes

Topics