A Qualitative Investigation of Late Adolescent College Student’s Perceptions and Lived Experiences of Premenstrual Dysphoric Symptoms during COVID-19: Implications for General Practitioners

Page: 403-408
Shyla Thomas Puthusserry1 and Clarissa F. Delariarte2 (Graduate School, University of Santo Tomas, Philippines1,2 and Far Eastern University, Philippines2, De La Salle University, Philippines2)

After the widespread of COVID-19, the stressful situation negatively affected the women’s menstrual cycle and increased the severity of the premenstrual syndrome. This qualitative study presents evidence of young women’s perceptions and experiences of Premenstrual dysphoric symptoms, which may support the provision of individualized health care during stressful conditions. Purpose. We use simple thematic analysis to explore young college students’ constructions about the subjective experiences of premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Method. A qualitative, semi-structured interview study was conducted in the Karnataka state of India. After the initial screening process of 400 college students randomly selected, ten were included in personal interviews, and eight participated in focus group discussions. Results. Five global themes emerged from the thematic analysis. The identified themes are further labeled as cognitive, emotional, behavioral, physical, Social, and Cultural issues. These themes suggested that young women experiencing PMDD symptoms have limited knowledge about the individual variability of menstrual experiences. Only a few participants are aware of the differences between PMS and PMDD. Most of them are unwilling to take any antidepressant medication and hesitate to visit the health care unit because of the stigma, social differentiation, and fear of the side effect of drugs. Most young women reported that premenstrual phenomena negatively affect their daily life, mainly their academic performances and social relationships. And during COVID-19, symptoms increased, and many said suicidal thoughts and confused mental status. Conclusions. Young female college students are the most affected group due to premenstrual disorder. People in our society need to be educated about the negative impact of social and cultural stigma related to menstruation-related issues. We hope authorities will develop appropriate strategies and intervention programs to treat premenstrual-related problems as early as possible.