DYSMENORRHEA AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS IN FEMALE STUDENTS AT SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, VIETNAM NATIONAL UNIVERSITY HO CHI MINH CITY

Abstract

Background: Dysmenorrhea, commonly referred to as painful menstruation, is a prevalent gynecological condition that often leads to severe pain and functional limitations among women in their reproductive years. In Vietnam, limited research exists regarding the prevalence and associated factors of dysmenorrhea in female students, hindering effective management and treatment strategies.

Objectives: To investigate the the prevalence of dysmenorrhea and its associated factors among female medical students enrolled at the School of Medicine, Vietnam National University - Ho Chi Minh City.

Method: A cross-sectional study was performed from April 2023 to March 2024 at the School of Medicine, Vietnam National University - Ho Chi Minh City. Participants were selected from female students from Year 1 to Year 6 studying Medicine, Pharmacy, Dentistry, Nursing and Traditional Medicine at School of Medicine, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City by using simple radom techniques. Participants were interviewed about dysmenorrhea, personal information and the characteristics of their menstrual cycle.

Results: From April 2023 to March 2024, there were 385 female students from Year 1 to Year 6 recruited in the study. The average age is 21.0±2.0 years. The rate of dysmenorrhea was 83.64%, of which the rates of mild, moderate, and severe painfulness were 16.15%, 36.34% and 47.52% respectively. This analysis suggested related factors to dysmenorrhea included low body mass index and age of menarche before 13 years old. There was a relationship between dysmenorrhea and poor quality of life measured by EQ-5D-5L scale.

Conclusions: The prevalence of dysmenorrhea observed among female students was high and there is a relationship between dysmenorrhea and poor quality of life. The preliminary study underscores the significance and ramifications of dysmenorrhea and there should be a screening and management plan of this health concern.

Keywords: dysmenorrhea, female university student, the School of Medicine, Vietnam National University - Ho Chi Minh City