Skip to content

Survey study, 2026

What is the prevalence and pattern of premenstrual syndrome among secondary school students in Nigeria?

PMS was very common, affecting 75.3% of students, with period pain and mood swings being the most frequent symptoms. However, only 15.4% sought healthcare evaluation.

Early or limited evidence 300 secondary school students (mean age 16.2 years) in Kaduna State, Nigeria.

What they did

They surveyed 300 female secondary school students in Nigeria using a questionnaire to find out how common PMS was and what symptoms they experienced.

What they found

Of 300 students, 226 (75.3%) reported PMS. Among those with PMS, period pain occurred in 183 (81.0%) and mood swings in 132 (58.4%). Only 15.4% sought healthcare evaluation, but 42.5% sought some form of intervention.

What it means for you

PMS is very common in this group of teenagers, but most don't seek medical care. This is from one area of Nigeria, so results may differ elsewhere. The study relies on what students reported without medical confirmation.

75.3%

prevalence of PMS

81.0%

had period pain among PMS group

15.4%

sought healthcare

About the study

Original title
Prevalence and Pattern of Premenstrual Syndrome among Secondary School Students in Kaduna State
Authors
Author NJBCS
Journal
Nigerian Journal of Basic and Clinical Sciences.
Year
2026
Study design
Survey study
Participants
300
What was tested
None, observational study.
Open access
Yes

Topics