Skip to content

Survey study, 2013

What do Brazilian men understand about premenstrual syndrome?

Most Brazilian men (86%) have heard of PMS, but awareness and understanding are significantly higher in more educated men and those with higher income.

Early or limited evidence 527 men aged 18-40 in Brazil

What they did

Between September 2007 and April 2008, researchers interviewed 527 men aged 18-40 in Brazil. The men were attending public healthcare services or working at universities in five different Brazilian cities and the Federal District. They were surveyed about their knowledge and attitudes toward PMS.

What they found

86.3% of men had heard of PMS. 34.3% knew it was part of the menstrual cycle. 55.2% identified emotional symptoms as characteristic, including nervousness, irritability, and anger. Men aged 20-35 with university degrees, white men, and those in higher socioeconomic strata were significantly more likely to have heard of PMS (p less than 0.001).

What it means for you

Many Brazilian men are aware of PMS, but knowledge varies significantly by education and income. Better education about PMS across all socioeconomic groups could improve understanding and support for women. The study focuses on men's awareness rather than women's actual experiences.

527

men surveyed

86.3%

had heard of PMS

55.2%

identified emotional symptoms

About the study

Original title
Understanding and attitudes of Brazilian men with regard to premenstrual syndrome
Authors
Makuch MY, Osis MJ, de Pádua KS et al.
Journal
International journal of gynaecology and obstetrics: the official organ of the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics
Year
2013
Study design
Survey study

Topics