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Survey study, 2025

What is the prevalence of PMS among medical students in India, and what factors are linked to it?

One in five medical students in this study had moderate-to-severe PMS. Lack of regular exercise and family history were linked to worse PMS.

Early or limited evidence 112 female medical students aged 18-25 in Andhra Pradesh, India (from initial sample of 150)

What they did

Cross-sectional study of 150 female medical students aged 18-25 in Andhra Pradesh, India (data collected 2016-2018). Students completed a premenstrual symptoms screening tool. 112 valid responses were analyzed.

What they found

Of 112 valid responses, 20.5% had moderate-to-severe PMS and 79.5% had no or mild PMS. Main symptoms were decreased interest in work (100%), difficulty concentrating (100%), and depressed mood (95.6%). Absence of regular exercise (P=0.010) and positive family history (P=0.064) were significantly linked to PMS.

What it means for you

One in five medical students in this study have moderate-to-severe PMS. Exercise and family history may matter. Limitation: small sample from one college in India studied several years ago, so results may not apply elsewhere.

20.5%

moderate-to-severe PMS

112

valid responses analyzed

95.6%

with depressed mood

About the study

Original title
Cycles and stress: A deep dive into premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder among Andhra’s medical undergraduates
Authors
Anusha Reddy Venumbaka, Rupitha V, Lakshmi Charan C
Journal
Asian Journal of Medical Sciences
Year
2025
Study design
Survey study
Participants
150
What was tested
None
Open access
Yes

Topics