Epidemiology and management of premenstrual symptoms in the community
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The epidemiology and management of premenstrual symptoms in the community
IRAS ID
156162
Contact name
Philip Hannaford
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Aberdeen
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
N/A, N/A
Research summary
Most women of reproductive age experience discomfort before their period, but for some, this is severe enough to impinge on quality of life, and can have a detrimental effect on relationships, work and daily activities. The aim of this study is to investigate women’s experiences and perceptions of premenstrual symptoms, the strategies used to manage them and the support available to deal with them.
Data on the epidemiology of problematic premenstrual symptoms in the UK is lacking. In addition, little is known about the management strategies women use to deal with premenstrual symptoms and how supported they feel in managing such symptoms. Previous studies indicate that very few women who report severe symptoms seek treatment, but little is known about whether their needs are being adequately met. Dissatisfaction among women that do seek treatment is widespread and previous research suggests that the diagnostic criteria for premenstrual syndrome relate poorly to the aspects that motivate women to seek treatment. While the presence of diverse symptoms has been highlighted, women’s perceptions of their symptoms, and their appraisal of such symptoms as problematic or otherwise, are also important in this respect.
To examine these issues, a postal questionnaire survey will be conducted among a sample of commnity-based women living in Scotland. A random sample of 3,600 women of reproductive age (aged 18-50 years) will be drawn from 20 practices across Scotland. All participants will be sent a questionnaire asking them a range of questions about their experience of premenstrual symptoms, their perceptions of such symptoms, the management strategies used, and the support accessed. The questionnaire will also include socio-demographic, general and menstrual health questions. These will allow us to conduct subgroup analysis so that we can explore whether certain groups are more or less likely to report problematic severe symptoms.
REC name
London - City & East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/LO/1044
Date of REC Opinion
10 Jun 2014
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion