Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder and Associated Factors among Female University Students in Kerman, Iran: A Cross-Sectional Study

Document Type : Original Research Article

Authors

1 Bachelor of Midwifery, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran

2 Associate Professor, Reproductive and Family Health Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran

3 Assistant Professor, Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Health, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran

4 Assistant Professor, Reproductive and Family Health Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran

10.22038/jmrh.2025.70665.2081

Abstract

Background & aim: Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a severe mood-based condition characterized by cyclical symptoms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the severity of PMDD symptoms and its associated factors among female university students.
Methods: This cross sectional study included 223 female students at Kerman University of Medical Sciences from September 2020 to July 2021, who were selected using multistage sampling. Data were collected using self-structured demographic-menstrual questionnaire and the Daily Record of Severity of Problems (DRSP) on a self-report basis. Statistical tests including Chi-square, Fisher's exact test, Mann‒Whitney U test, and logistic regression were used for data analysis.
Results: Overall, 77.6% of participants experienced PMDD symptoms (53.6% mild, 42% moderate, 3.6% severe, <1% highly severe). Significant associations were found between PMDD occurrence and menstrual characteristics (P<0.001). Logistic regression analysis identified menstrual period duration as a significant predictor; bleeding for 3-8 days increased the odds of PMDD by 12 times (OR=12.06, P=0.001), and >8 days increased the odds by 15 times (OR=15.33,P=0.026OR = 15.33, P = 0.026OR=15.33,P=0.026). Furthermore, the total DRSP score significantly predicted PMDD (OR=1.02, P=0.001).
Conclusion: PMDD symptoms are highly prevalent among female students and significantly influenced by menstrual characteristics. These findings highlight the importance of targeted screening and supportive interventions to improve menstrual health.

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Journal of Midwifery and Reproductive Health
Volume 14, Issue 2
April 2026
Pages 5421-5431

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