Effects of Dysmenorrhea on Academic and Social Activities of Students in Tertiary Institutions in an Urban City, South East Nigeria

Background: Dysmenorrhoea is a medical condition that has physiological and psychological effects on females who suffer it. Dysmenorrhoea is still an important public health problem which has negative impact on female health and social relationships, school and work activities.

Aims and Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of dysmenorrhea on the academic and social activities of female students in tertiary institutions in Aba.

Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted among female students from four tertiary institutions in Aba in Abia State South East Nigeria from June to August2019. Information on socio-demographic variables, prevalence of dysmenorrhoea and effects on academic and social life was obtained from consenting students using structured, self-administered pretested questionnaires. Data collected was cleaned and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0. Level of statistical significance was set at P< 0.05.

Results: Out of the 400 questionnaires that were properly filled and retrieved, Dysmenorrhoea was reported in 288 (72%) of the participants. About half of these students with dysmenorrhoea (49.2%) reported being absent from school on account of the pain, 228 (79.1%) reported inability to concentrate in class during the menstrual pain and decreased school performance was recorded in 89 (30.9%). Adverse effects on daily routine were noted in 232 (80.7%) and affected social activities in 216 respondents (75%). A statistically significant association was found between age at menarche and absenteeism (P=0.001).