Background: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) significantly impacts women’s health and daily functioning. This study investigated the awareness and prevalence of PMS among women aged 15 to 40 in the Al Qassim region of Saudi Arabia. The study aimed to identify gaps in awareness and establish correlations between lifestyle choices and PMS severity.
Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used, targeting 400 women selected through random sampling. Data were collected via an online self-assessment questionnaire covering socio-demographic characteristics, medical history, PMS diagnostic criteria, and awareness levels. Statistical analyses were conducted using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, employing chi-square tests to explore relationships between variables.
Results: The results showed no significant association between physical activity (χ2(1) = 0.48, p = 0.489), relaxation exercises (p = 0.615), and smoking (p = 1) with PMS symptoms. However, a significant association existed between depression and PMS symptoms (χ²(1) = 8.51, p = 0.004), underscoring the need for mental health interventions. Additionally, vitamin intake was significantly associated with menstrual cycle regularity, suggesting potential benefits of nutritional supplementation. These findings contributed to a deeper understanding of PMS in the context of Al Qassim’s cultural and environmental factors, offering valuable insights for public health initiatives and healthcare providers in developing targeted treatment strategies for affected women.
Conclusion: The study examined menstrual cycle regularity and PMS symptoms, exploring their relationships with lifestyle factors. The research investigated how smoking, depression, physical activity, relaxation, and vitamin intake impacted these reproductive health outcomes. Regular exercise and relaxation showed no significant effects, but there was a substantial correlation between depression and the severity of PMS symptoms.
Key words: Premenstrual syndrome, PMS, menstrual cycle, awareness, Saudi Arabia
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