Unraveling the Impact of Modifiable Behaviors on Menstrual Health in Medical Students of Nawaz Sharif Medical College Gujrat
A Cross Sectional Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64950/ijchmd.48Keywords:
menstrual irregularity, body mass index, stress, sleep quality, caffeine intake, female studentsAbstract
Background:
Menstrual cycle is a sensitive indicator of women’s physical and psychological health, and disturbances in
its timing or flow can impair well-being, academic performance, and daily functioning. University students
are especially vulnerable to menstrual irregularity due to rapidly changing lifestyle patterns, nutritional
habits, stress levels, and sleep behaviors. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of menstrual
irregularities among female medical students and to identify lifestyle factors associated with these
disturbances.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted among female students aged 18–28 years at Nawaz Sharif Medical
College in Pakistan. Participants were selected through simple random sampling and completed a
structured questionnaire that assessed menstrual patterns, sleep quality, stress, physical activity, diet, and
body mass index. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square testing, non-parametric group
comparisons, correlation analysis, and binary logistic regression.
Results:
Results showed that nearly one in four students experienced irregular menstrual cycles. Higher body
mass index and elevated perceived stress were significantly associated
with irregularity, while regression analysis revealed that higher body mass index, poor sleep quality, a
nd greater caffeine intake independently predicted menstrual disturbances. Dietary patterns and physical
activity did not show significant associations after adjustment.
Conclusion:
The findings indicate that modifiable lifestyle factors play a meaningful role in menstrual health among
young women. Promoting healthy weight maintenance, improving sleep hygiene, reducing excessive
caffeine use, and supporting stress-management strategies may enhance menstrual regularity and overall
well-being in university populations.
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