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Survey study, 1998

How common is PMS in women of reproductive age and what factors increase the risk?

30.4% had PMS, with most having mild to moderate symptoms. Women with higher stress, depression symptoms, painful periods, and higher education level had higher rates.

Early or limited evidence 454 reproductive women aged 15-49 in Beijing

What they did

Cross-sectional questionnaire study of 454 reproductive women aged 15-49 in Beijing. Women were asked about PMS symptoms, stress level, education level, dysmenorrhea (painful periods), feelings about menstruation, and depression symptoms.

What they found

30.4% had PMS: 61.6% of those had mild symptoms, 34.1% moderate symptoms, and 4.3% severe symptoms. Most common symptoms were irritability, depression, anxiety, diarrhea, lack of concentration, and sleeping excessively. Women with higher education, greater stress, dysmenorrhea, dislike of menstruation, and depression symptoms had higher PMS rates than others (P<0.05).

What it means for you

PMS affects about one-third of women of reproductive age, especially those with higher stress, depression symptoms, painful periods, and negative feelings about menstruation. The study was limited to one city in China and shows association only, not proof that these factors cause PMS.

30.4%

prevalence of PMS

454

women studied

P<0.05

significance of risk factors

About the study

Original title
[Prevalence of premenstrual syndrome in reproductive women and its influential factors]
Authors
Zhao G, Wang L, Qu C
Journal
Zhonghua fu chan ke za zhi
Year
1998
Study design
Survey study
Participants
454
What was tested
None - questionnaire survey

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