Are sleep problems linked to PMS symptoms and menstrual problems?

Background/Objectives : Sleep disorders, particularly insomnia, are increasingly recognized as key determinants of mental health. Disturbances in sleep architecture may exacerbate hormonal dysregulation, contributing to menstrual cycle irregularities and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). The study investigate the relationship between insomnia symptoms, menstrual problems, and PMS among nursing students. Methods : The cross-sectional study was conducted using a web-based survey (CAWI) among 72 female graduate nursing students. The questionnaire included questions about menstrual history, the presence of menstrual disorders, PMS symptoms, and lifestyle and body mass index (BMI). Insomnia was assessed using the Polish version of the Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS), taking ≥8 as the cutoff point. Logistic regression analysis with confounding variables was performed. Results : 70% of participants had PMS symptoms, 19.5% had irregular menstrual cycles, and 86.5% reported problems with menstrual bleeding. The mean AIS score was 10.1 (SD = 4.05). Women with insomnia were almost 4 times more likely to experience PMS symptoms (OR = 3.93; 95% CI 1.14-13.59), more than 7 times more likely to experience bleeding problems (OR = 7.56; 95% CI: 1.51-37.97), and each additional AIS score increased the risk of cycle irregularity by 24% (OR = 1.24, 95% CI 1.01-1.50). Conclusions : The findings indicate a significant association between insomnia symptoms, menstrual disturbances, and PMS, underscoring the complex links between sleep, reproductive, and mental health. Preventive interventions, particularly sleep hygiene education, may serve as an effective strategy to support women's overall health and well-being.

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