Background: As females hit puberty and menarche, premenstrual disorders (PMDs) might arise. This study aims at assessing the impact of PMDs on the quality of life (QOL) in young females and compares it to the QOL of those who are not suffering from PMDs.
Methods: This comparative cross-sectional study included the youth age group who are residents in the eastern province and have regular cycles. Different questionnaires were utilized to collect the data from the participants. The questionnaires used were the sociodemographic, gynecological profile, Diagnostic and statistical manual - the fourth edition criteria, and The World Health Organization QOL-brief version questionnaire.
Results: Among 500 participants who met the inclusion/exclusion criteria, the prevalence of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) was 161 (32.2%), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) was 113 (22.6%). When comparing the QOL scores, it was observed that those who suffered from PMDD demonstrated a reduced QOL in all four domains in comparison to those who had PMS and those who had no PMDs. There was a statistically significant difference in the scores of all domains, except for the environmental domain, with p < 0.001.
Conclusion: The outcome of this study confirmed that PMDs affect the QOL physically, mentally, and socially. With the aim of improving the QOL, appropriate support shall be provided. In addition, educational programs and health campaigns should be initiated to spread awareness among all females so they can recognize the problem and seek medical help.
Key words: Premenstrual syndrome, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, youth age females, quality of life.
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