Pre-menstrual syndrome among the general female population of Saudi Arabia: Are there any Opportunities for Pharmacist’s involvement in patients education?

Abstract

Background: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) affects up to 20% of reproductive-aged women and contribute to marked impairment of interpersonal or workplace performance in about 3-8%. Thus, a study was conducted to find out the frequency of PMS in Saudi female population using modified Moos menstrual distress questionnaire (MDQ) and assess the severity of emotional, physical, and behavioural symptoms. Method: The pharmacists-led cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted from January to April 2020 among the female population in Asir region, Saudi Arabia. The study questionnaire was first distributed to university students and was requested to pass it on to their family members and others. Results: There was a total of 383 public responded to our study, whereas 60 responses were excluded due to incomplete data. Among the respondents, majority were between the age group of 21¬ to 25 years (n=167; 51.7%), students (n=209; 64.7%), single (n=224; 69.3%). Most of the respondents in all age groups experienced any one of these PMS ranging from moderate to severe intensity. Under every domain of the PMS, most reported severe mood swing as the negative effects by 121 (37.5%); in cognitive symptoms, mild lack of concentration by 117 (36.2%); in fluid retention, breast pain by 101 (31.3%); in behaviour change, mild lack of performance by 111 (34.4%); in somatic symptoms, severe body aches by 132 (40.9%); and in autonomic reactions, mild sweats by 81 (25.1%), respondents. Among the respondents, negative effects, behaviour change, and somatic symptoms were commonly seen with varying intensity which was ranging from 15.5% to 37.5%, 9.9% to 34.4%, and 14.2% to 40.9%, respectively. Conclusion: A considerable high prevalence of PMS was found among the study population. Healthcare professionals especially pharmacists involvement is highly required to conduct health education and awareness programs, and counselling services for female population on symptoms of PMS and prevention through lifestyle modification.