Effectiveness of web-based health education for university students with premenstrual syndrome: a randomized controlled trial

The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of web-based health education on symptoms and quality of life of university students with premenstrual syndrome. This was a single-blind, parallel-group randomized controlled trial. The study was completed by 67 participants: 33 in the intervention group and 34 in the control group. The intervention group received web-based health education for 4 weeks, while the control group had no special intervention. Data were collected between three menstrual cycles using the Premenstrual Syndrome Scale, Premenstrual Symptoms Impact Scale, System Usability Scale, and a personal information form. Following web-based health education, the intervention group showed significant improvements compared to the control group, and this difference remained significant after two menstrual cycles. Notably, the intervention group experienced significant reductions in psychological symptoms, such as depressive affect, anxiety, fatigue, irritability, and depressive thoughts. The intervention group reported that the website was usable. The results indicate that a web-based health education has the potential to be an effective strategy for managing premenstrual syndrome. This approach also underscores the important role of healthcare professionals in providing accessible digital interventions that address women's health needs.