COPING STRATEGIES AND SELF-MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AMONG COLLEGE STUDENTS WITH PRIMARY DYSMENORRHEA: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Introduction: Primary dysmenorrhea (PD) is a common menstrual disorder among young women that adversely affects academic performance and quality of life, often managed through diverse pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 180 female nursing students aged 18–25 years from selected colleges in Jaipur, Rajasthan, using a structured questionnaire covering demographic data, menstrual history, and coping practices. Results: Most participants (64.4%) were aged 18–21 years, with menarche at 13–14 years (71.7%). Pharmacological strategies were reported by 65% (mainly OTC analgesics), though only 41% were aware of correct dosages, while 72.2% practiced rest, 68.3% heat application, and 54.4% hydration. Significant associations were found between age at menarche and non-pharmacological strategies (p = 0.04), and between flow duration and pharmacological use (p = 0.01). Conclusion: The study highlights high reliance on self-management, with frequent non-prescribed analgesic use and poor dosage awareness, alongside widespread adoption of non-pharmacological strategies. Implications: Structured menstrual health education is needed to promote safe coping practices and reduce risks from inappropriate self-medication.