Psychosocial stress as a predisposing risk factor of primary dysmenorrhea: a Venezuelan cross-sectional study

Abstract

Introduction: Primary dysmenorrhea (PD), defined as menstrual pain in the absence of an underlying pelvic pathology, is one of the most common gynecologic problems in reproductive-age women, affecting 10-15% of the these. Psychosocial stress in students constitutes a predisposing risk factor for presenting and exacerbating PD symptoms, due to somatization of the trigger event. Objective: Determine the prevalence of primary dysmenorrhea (PD) in Venezuelan university students, along with factors that influence its rise, particularly stress. Materials and Methods: Between February 2022 and June 2023, a cross-sectional and population study was carried out, in a sample of 608 female Venezuelan university students (n = 20 public/private universities). Results: 90.6% of the sample (n = 551) reported suffering from PD, being as disabling by 54.4% (n = 300) of the latter. 86.3% (n = 525) mentioned experiencing stress; 68.8% (n = 361; p < 0.0001) reported changes in their menstrual cycles, as well as alterations in their amount of menstrual flow, increased dysmenorrhea, and/or worsening of symptoms associated with menstrual period. Likewise, it was found that the younger the age of onset of PD, the more likely the patient is to present PD, with more intensity and more disabling pain, as well as a greater chance of having changes in their menstrual cycles. Conclusion: There has been a significant increase in the prevalence of PD in Venezuelan female university students, with stress constituting an important risk factor for this condition.

Keywords

• Dysmenorrhea. Students. Menstruation.