The Relationship Between Menstrual Poverty and Depressive Symptoms in Women Aged 15-49 in Balçova District of İzmir

Purpose: The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between menstrual poverty and depressive symptoms in women aged 15-49 living in the Fevzi Çakmak and Çetin Emeç neighborhoods of Balçova, İzmir. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among women aged 15-49 living in Balçova between December 2022 and August 2023. A total of 304 women were recruited using a cluster sampling method. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews. The dependent variable was the presence of depressive symptoms, and the independent variable was menstrual poverty. Additional variables included socio-demographic characteristics, economic status, household features, and health perception. Data analysis was performed using Chi-square tests, t-tests, and logistic regression. Results: According to the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) scale, 41.1% of women reported moderate depressive symptoms, and 20.1% experienced moderately severe depressive symptoms. Over the past year, 70.4% of the participants experienced menstrual poverty. Women who experienced menstrual poverty were 2.1 times more likely to report depressive symptoms compared to those who did not (OR=2.1, p=0.012, 95% CI=1.1-3.8). Age and household income were also found to be significant risk factors for depressive symptoms. Conclusion: The study indicates that menstrual poverty negatively impacts the mental health of women in Balçova. Policymakers are urged to address this issue and develop supportive interventions for women.