What factors are linked to irregular periods in college students?

Background: Menstrual irregularity is a common problem among women aged from 21 to 25 years. Previously published work on menstrual irregularity used inconsistent definition which results in a difference in prevalence. Therefore the study aimed to assess the magnitude and associated factors of menstrual irregularity among undergraduate students of Debre Berhan University, Ethiopia. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was carried out among 660 undergraduate female students at Debre Berhan University. To get representative study participants, a stratified sampling technique was used. To collect the data self-administered questionnaire was used. Physical examination and anthropometric measurement were also done. Data were analyzed by using SPSS version 21. Logistic regression analysis was done. A significant association was declared at a p-value less than 0.05. Result: A total of 620 students participated in the present study with a response rate of 93.9%. Out of the total study participants, 32.6% (95% CI 29-36.5) participants had irregular menstrual cycle. Significant association was found between anemia (AOR = 2.1; 95%CI 1.337-3.441), alcohol intake (AOR = 2.4; 95%CI 1.25-4.666), < 5 sleep hours (AOR = 5.4; 95%CI 2.975-9.888), 6-7 sleep hours (AOR = 1.9; 95%CI 1.291-2.907), Perceived stress (AOR = 3.3; 95%CI 1.8322-5.940), iodine deficiency disorder (IDD) (AOR = 3.9; 95%CI 1.325-11.636) and underweight (AOR = 1.8; 95%CI 1.109-2.847) with menstrual irregularity. Conclusion: The finding of this study reported a low magnitude of menstrual irregularity as compared to previous studies. Students should adopt healthier lifestyle practices (weight control, stress control, anemia control, and avoid alcohol intake) to control menstrual irregularity.

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