Self-Coping Methods and Determination on Premenstrual Syndrome Symptoms Prevalence by Diary of Premenstrual Syndrome in University Students

Abstract

Objective: Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a set of emotional, physical and behavioral problems that occur in the luteal phase and is a condition that dissipates with the onset of menstruation. The aim of this study is to determine the status of students living in the dormitory with PMS symptoms and to determine what their own methods of coping with PMS complaints are. Methods: The population of the study is a total 412 university students residing in girls’ dormitories. Total 392 volunteer students were included in the study. The research coverage rate is 95.1%. Research data were collected through a questionnaire including socio-demographic characteristics, gynecological data and PMS diary. Results: While 51.5% of the students had regular menstruation, 54.1% of them had a painful menstrual period, and 42.9% of them reported that they experienced PMS symptoms in at least 3 consecutive menstrual periods and in a severity that would affect their life. There was no significant relationship between PMS symptoms and independent variables such as chocolate, coffee, fast food, smoking, dieting and sunbathing. According to the PMS diary, it was determined that during 3 cycles, symptoms appeared on the 2nd day at the earliest before menstruation, and at the latest on the 10th day before menstruation. During each menstrual period, students should be protected from cold, take a warm shower, apply hot, drink herbal tea, pay attention to nutritional content, burn incense, use cosmetic products, massage. It has been determined that they produce natural solutions. Conclusion: it is important to carry out studies on the management of PMS symptoms, especially in these periods, which start 10 days before menstruation and when PMS symptoms are felt in almost one third of each cycle and the quality of life is adversely affected.