Menstrual Irregularities and Mental Health: A Cross-sectional Exploration among Saudi Arabian Women

Introduction: The menstrual cycle is an integral facet of women’s reproductive health, with irregularities presenting both physical and emotional challenges. Irregularities encompass symptoms such as abnormal bleeding patterns, prolonged periods and irregular cycles. However, the implications of these irregularities extend beyond physical discomfort, potentially impacting emotional and mental well-being. Specifically, in the context of Saudi Arabia, there exists a noticeable gap in comprehensive research investigating the association between menstrual irregularities and mental health outcomes. This study seeks to bridge this gap, aiming to explore the prevalence of menstrual irregularities among Saudi Arabian women and to closely examine their relationship with mental health outcomes, especially concerning psychological distress, anxiety and depression. Methods: For this investigation, a cross-sectional study design was chosen as the most apt. The target population consisted of Saudi Arabian women, specifically those aged between 18 and 45 years. These participants were meticulously recruited to participate and were tasked with completing self-report questionnaires. These questionnaires were intricately designed to extract detailed information regarding their menstrual irregularities, their mental health outcomes, the impact of these irregularities on their daily functioning and their patterns of healthcare utilisation. Results: On initial analysis of the collected data, a prominent correlation emerged between menstrual irregularities and heightened levels of psychological distress among the participating women. In addition, while the study was laden with a myriad of details, what stood out the most was how these menstrual irregularities deeply impacted the daily lives of the participants. A significant number of participants reported substantial disruptions in their social relationships and a noticeable decline in their overall quality of life due to these irregularities. Conclusion: This research ventured into the intricate landscape of the relationship between menstrual irregularities and mental health among Saudi Arabian women. The outcomes of the study have significant implications. They underscore the paramount importance of understanding menstrual health as a fundamental pillar of a woman’s overall well-being. With the findings revealing a close linkage between menstrual irregularities and heightened psychological distress, the study highlights an urgent and unmet need for devising targeted interventions and support systems tailored specifically for this demographic. The insights drawn from this research are poised to act as a guide, aiding healthcare providers and policymakers in making more informed and empathetic decisions.