Factors Associated with Premenstrual Syndrome in High School Students

Park, Jung Won; Kim, Jun Su; Lee, Ka Young; Park, Tae Jin; Kim, Sung Hee

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a common and disabling disorder among adolescents. But the research addressing premenstrual disorders in adolescents is sparse and such disorders may well be underrecognized. In this regard, the study aimed at identifying attributes to premenstrual symptoms by surveying one high school located in Busan, Korea. METHODS: A total of 381 adolescent females who accepted the participation in this study were recruited from one academic high school in Busan, Korea. For the evaluation of risk factors on the PMS, we investigated menstrual patterns, severity of premenstrual symptoms, environment and life events, stress, and physical activity. RESULTS: In bivariate analysis, earlier menarche (P = 0.007), higher BEPSI score (P < 0.001), higher physical activity score (P = 0.003), and drinking alcohol (P = 0.047) were related to PMS symptom severity. On multiple regression analysis, Brief Encounter Psychosocial Instrument Score (P < 0.001), age of menarche (P = 0.003) and physical activity (P = 0.004) were independent explanatory variables of PMS symptom severity. CONCLUSION: This study showed that the relationship between PMS symptom severity and age of menarche and stress was statistically significant in high school girls.