What helps teenagers cope better with PMS?

Background: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a common reproductive health problem experienced by adolescent girls and can impact physical, psychological, and social well-being. Despite the high prevalence of PMS, research in Indonesia specifically examining factors influencing adolescents' coping mechanisms in dealing with PMS is still limited. Objective: This study aims to analyze social factors (social support), psychological factors (depression, anxiety, stress), and menstrual characteristics that influence the coping mechanisms of premenstrual syndrome in adolescent girls in Indonesia. Methods: This is an observational analytical study with a cross-sectional design in 321 adolescent girls aged ≥12 years using a purposive sampling technique. Data were collected using the PMS-COPE questionnaire, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, the DASS-21, and demographic data. Data analysis was performed using logistic regression. Results: The analysis showed that social support (p < 0.001) and menstrual cycle regularity (p = 0.035) were factors that significantly influenced PMS coping mechanisms in adolescents. Adolescents tended to use coping strategies based on social and enjoyable activities. Conclusion: Social support and the menstrual cycle play important roles in shaping adolescents' coping mechanisms for PMS. Nursing interventions that emphasize strengthening social support and menstrual health education are needed to improve adolescents' adaptive coping.

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