Knowledge, attitude, and healthcare-seeking behavior towards dysmenorrhea among female students of a private university in Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Dysmenorrhea, especially when it is severe, has been associated with a restriction of activity and absence from school or work. Despite this substantial effect on their quality of life and general wellbeing, few women and adolescents with dysmenorrhea seek treatment as they believe it would not help. Aim: The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitude, and healthcare-seeking behavior towards dysmenorrhea among female students of a Private University in Ogun State, Nigeria. Subjects and Methods: Using a descriptive study design, 315 female students were randomly selected to participate in the study. Participants were given structured questionnaire to complete. Data collected were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) 16.0 and were presented in tables reporting frequency counts and percentages. Statistical significant tests were conducted using chi-square. Result: Dysmenorrhea was reported in 78.1% (242/310) with majority ignoring the pain. Less than average 40.6% (126/310) of the participants had high knowledge about dysmenorrhea and 63.5% (197/310) had negative attitude towards dysmenorrhea. Major effects of dysmenorrhea included restriction from physical activities in 77.2% (187/242) and social withdrawal in 59.1% (143/242). Findings revealed a statistically significant relationship between the age of respondents and their healthcare-seeking behavior towards dysmenorrhea (P < 0.01). Conclusion: Findings from this study indicate the need to design regular reproductive health programs for female undergraduates including information on how to monitor and manage menstrual problems.