How common is PMS among young women at university and what factors increase risk?

Objectives: The burden of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is increasing and affects the quality of life of young women. This study aimed to measure the prevalence of PMS and identify the associated factors amongst students and staff belonging to the King Saud University (KSU) in Riyadh city, Saudi Arabia, 2019. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted during 2019 with 409 women (both students and staff), aged 18-30 years belonging to the KSU (female campus), in Riyadh city, Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire comprised sociodemographic information, premenstrual symptoms, smoking, physical activity, and social support. Standard protocols were followed to measure anthropometric indices, including height, weight, hip, and waist circumference. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify the significant factors associated with PMS. Results: Participants’ mean age and body mass index were 22±3.3 years and 24.0±5.3 kg/m2 , respectively. The mean scores for total symptoms were 6.71±2.81, ranging from 0 to 12, with more than 90% of women reporting at least one symptom. The physical symptoms were more frequently reported as compared to psychological symptoms. The multivariate regression found that high-level studies (OR= 2.26, 95% CI: 1.31-3.92) and participants reporting income level <10000 Saudi Arabian Riyal (OR= 2.66, 95% CI: 1.40-5.03) were significantly associated with PMS. Conclusions: A significantly large number of women are suffering from PMS. Lifestyle interventions focusing on body weight and income-generating programs can help decrease premenstrual symptoms. We recommend that national-level studies should be conducted to highlight any urban-rural differences related to PMS.

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