Prevalence and Predictors of Impact of Dysmenorrhea on School Activities Among High School Students in Ogbomoso, South-West Nigeria

Abstract

Context

Dysmenorrhea is a common public health problem among adolescent females and can negatively affect school performance and daily activities.

Aim

To determine the prevalence of dysmenorrhea and identify predictors of its impact on school activities among high school students in Ogbomoso, South-West Nigeria.

Materials and Methods

A community-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted. Using a multistage stratified sampling technique, 450 participants were recruited. Data were collected via pretested semi-structured self-administered questionnaires.

Statistical Analysis:
Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22. Chi-square tests were applied for categorical variables, and logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of dysmenorrhea impact.

Results

• Prevalence: Dysmenorrhea was reported in 72.4% of respondents.

• Significant predictors of negative impact on school activities:

  • Ethnicity: Yoruba students were more likely to be affected (AOR = 8.637; 95% CI: 1.357–54.986; p = 0.022)

  • Regular menstrual cycle: Those with regular cycles were less likely to experience negative impacts (AOR = 0.055; 95% CI: 0.006–0.500; p = 0.010)

  • Vomiting: Reduced likelihood of negative impact among those without vomiting (AOR = 0.103; 95% CI: 0.020–0.522; p = 0.006)

  • Severity of abdominal pain: Moderate pain (AOR = 2.737; 95% CI: 1.050–7.138; p = 0.039) and severe pain (AOR = 6.351; 95% CI: 2.148–18.772; p = 0.001) increased the likelihood of negative impact

Students of Yoruba ethnicity and those with moderate or severe abdominal pain were more likely to experience school disruption, while regular menstrual cycles and absence of vomiting were protective.

Conclusion

Dysmenorrhea affects over two-thirds of high school students in Ogbomoso. Ethnicity, menstrual regularity, severity of abdominal pain, and vomiting are key predictors of its impact on school activities. Incorporating comprehensive menstrual health education programs into school curricula may help improve academic performance and quality of life for female students.