PREVALENCE AND PREDICTORS OF DYSMENORRHOEA AND IT’S EFFECTS AMONG ADOLESCENT GIRLS IN CHITWAN, NEPAL

Abstract

Background: Dysmenorrhea is a common gynaecologic complaint among adolescent female. Despite of being a natural phenomenon it has severe impact on day to day activities such as school absenteeism, decreased social and physical activities. Hence, this study aimed to assess the prevalence and predictors of dysmenorrhoea and it’s effects among adolescent girls in Chitwan. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 393 female adolescent students who were studying in secondary and higher secondary level in public schools of Bharatpur, Chitwan. Students were selected through proportionate stratified random sampling technique. Data were collected by using structured self-administered questionnaire from January 17, 2021 to February 16, 2021. Data were analysed in SPSS software version 20 for window using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Prevalence of dysmenorrhoea was found to be 87.5% and 47.4% of adolescents experienced moderate level of menstrual pain. Three fourth (75%) of adolescents reported decreased in physical activity, difficulty in sleep (67.7%), unnecessary irritation (65.4%) and class absenteeism (38.1%) during menstruation. Most (89.8%) of the adolescents communicate their problem with others and 40.7% apply heat therapy. Prior health education [AOR:4.087, 95% CI: 1.980 – 8.403) and family history of dysmenorrhoea [AOR:2.786, 95% CI: 1.408– 5.495) were found to be statistically significant with dysmenorrhoea. Conclusions: Dysmenorrhoea is the most common problem among the adolescents that affects various domains of life. Hence, the concerned authorities need to consider various factors such as health seeking behavior, educational intervention and counselling in order to mitigate the silent problems related to menstruation.