Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence, the impact of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) on the quality of life, to identify the most common symptoms of PMS encountered by the females in medical field, and to analyze the factors related to the development and the severity of PMS.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted between October 2024 and March 2025, targeting female medical students aged 18–30 years. Participants were recruited through social media platforms and university systems. A self-administered questionnaire was developed to assess demographic information, PMS symptoms, their impact on quality of life, coping strategies, and healthcare-seeking behavior.
Results: A total of 504 female medical students participated. Common symptoms reported included fatigue (67.6%), mood swings (67.5%), and bloating (51%). The severity of symptoms was linked to menstrual disorders, hormonal contraception use, and a family history of PMS. PMS significantly affected emotional well-being (34.5%), social interactions (22.3%), and academic performance (21.5%). Despite the significant impact, only 33.9% used medical treatments, and 66.1% relied on non-medical methods. Additionally, 11.3% sought healthcare for PMS symptoms.
Conclusion: PMS symptoms were prevalent and had a substantial impact on the academic and emotional well-being of female medical students. While many students used non-medical coping strategies, healthcare utilization was low. These findings underscore the need for better awareness and support for PMS management within academic settings.

Key words: Premenstrual syndrome, quality of life, female medical students, coping mechanisms, Saudi Arabia.