Sociodemographic and Lifestyle-related Factors Associated with Dysmenorrhea Among University Students

Dysmenorrhea is a medical condition that refers to painful menstrual cramps experienced by women during menstruation. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of dysmenorrhea and contributing socio-demographic and lifestyle factors among COHES female students at JKUAT Main Campus. Analytical cross-sectional study design was used to conduct the study. The study involved a study population of 1165 female students with a sample size of 222. Stratified random sampling technique was used. The study population was divided into 5 schools and a proportion sample from each group was identified and specific number of female students from each group was randomly recruited. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire, encompassing prevalence of dysmenorrhoea, socio-demographic and lifestyle factors. Analysis of data was done using SPSS version 26. Chi square/fisher exact tests were used to identify factors associated with dysmenorrhea. Data was presented using pie charts and tables. Ethical clearance to conduct the study was obtained from JKUAT Ethics research Committee. Prevalence rate of dysmenorrhea in COHES was 68%. Socio-demographic factors like family history of dysmenorrhea showed significant associations with dysmenorrhea. None of the lifestyle factors like physical activity, diet, BMI and caffeine consumption showed a significant association with dysmenorrhea. The study recommended that student body in collaboration with university administration should create a peer support network where individuals shared their dysmenorrhea experiences. Also, the university in collaboration with the student body and the JKUAT hospital should organize educational seminars focused on dysmenorrhea and its associated life-style factors to increase awareness.