PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME AND ITS ASSOCIATED SYMPTOMS AMONG EGYPTIAN WOMEN

Abstract Background: Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a disorder characterized by hormonal changes that trigger disruptive symptoms in a significant number of women. Aim: of this study was to assess Egyptian women's physical, psychological, and behavioral symptoms associated with premenstrual cycle. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was utilized to study phenomena. A convenient sample of 492 women were included. Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ), and sociodemographic and obstetric history questionnaire were used to collect pertinent data. Results: Physical symptoms had higher frequency followed by psychological, and behavioral symptoms respectively. The most common physical complaints were muscles weakness, tachycardia, nausea and vomiting. Mood changes, depression, and anxiety, where the most common psychological symptoms. Most women also complained of behavioral changes mainly in form of less performance at work and incorrect judgment. Statistical analysis revealed a significant relation between women's age, level of education, and marital status with the premenstrual symptoms. Conclusion. The study implicated the importance of integration PMS through women's health programs and reproductive health programs.