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Assessing the burden of primary dysmenorrhea and its association with quality of life among school adolescents in Jizan, Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study

Amani A. Alotaibi(1),


(1) Department of Public Health, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, 45142, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Jazan University Hospital, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
Corresponding Author

Abstract


Primary dysmenorrhea affects females worldwide, impairing physical, mental, and social well-being. Related research among Saudi school adolescents remains limited. This cross-sectional study was undertaken to assess the severity levels of primary dysmenorrhea, its association with self-care practices, and the quality of life among 850 school students aged 13–19 years in Jizan City, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using a pre-tested online questionnaire. Primary dysmenorrhea severity was measured using the Numerical Rating Scale, while quality of life was assessed with the 12-item Short-Form Health Survey. Results showed that 96% of the participants reported primary dysmenorrhea, with moderate pain being the most commonly reported level (64.6%), followed by severe pain (24.6%). Most of the participants used home remedies (91.1%), and 67.2% reported analgesic use, which was strongly associated with pain severity. Only 23.5% sought medical consultation. Quality-of-life scores significantly declined with increased pain severity level, particularly in bodily pain, mental health, and social functioning. These findings emphasize the need for adolescent-focused programs promoting effective lifestyle and self-care management strategies.

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