How common is PMS in Ethiopia and what factors are associated with it?

PMS or premenstrual syndrome is a condition that manifests as emotional, physical and behavioral symptoms and affects women between their late 20’s to early 40’s. The condition is marked by the symptoms 5 to 10 days prior to beginning of the period and symptoms resolve once the period begins or within 4 to 7 days. PMS is a relatively common condition and almost 75% women suffer from this condition at some point in their lives. Sometimes mood swings, behavioural changes and physical symptoms may be severe enough to affect normal life. Objectives: The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of premenstrual syndrome and associated factors among Debrebirhan Town, North Showa, and Amhara Region, Ethiopia. Methods: a community based cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted among Debrebirhan residence. A pre-tested structured and semi structured face to face interview questionnaire was used. Data was collected from September to November, 2013 after obtaining verbal consent from the respondent. Data entry was performed by using SPPSS version 20 and analysis using logistic regression and odd ratio. Results: A total of 321 participants 41.12 % were premenstrual syndrome. Premenstrual syndrome was associated with Income less than 400 birr (AOR=2.766(1.290, 5.927)) is associated with PMS. Those with income less than 400birrs are 2.766times more likely to PMS than those who have income greater than 700birr. Income between 400-700birr (AOR=2.684(1.155, 6.236)) is associated with PMS. Those with income between 400-700birr are 2.684times more likely to PMS than their have income greater than 700birr. Previous history of depression is (AOR=1.843(1.110, 3.059)) is associated with depression. Those with Previous history of depression are 1.843times likely to develop PMS than those who have not previous history of depression. Continuous follow up in hospital (AOR=13.915(1.471, 131.674)) is associated with PMS, those with Continuous follow up in hospital are 13.915times likely to develop PMS than those who have not continuous follow up in hospital. Conclusion and recommendation: The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of premenstrual syndrome among Debrebirhan residence to assess the factors that are associated with PMS. From the findings of this study, it emerged that PMS is high among who participated in the study. For all the socio-demographic factors and related factors that were studied, it emerged from the findings of the study. That continuous follow up in hospital, previous history of depression and low income were statistically associated with scoring Positive to PMS.

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