The impact of primary dysmenorrhea on quality of life among adolescent girls and working women: a systematic review

Abstract

Primary dysmenorrhea is one of the most prevalent gynecological conditions among women worldwide. Current quantitative literature on primary dysmenorrhea provides insight into the prevalence and severity of the condition; however, the reliance on standardized quality-of-life questionnaires has limited our understanding of women’s lived experiences and its true impact on day-to-day experiences. The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the qualitative impacts of primary dysmenorrhea on women’s daily functioning, mental well-being, and social participation. Seven unique themes were identified across the fourteen included studies which reflected stressors associated with the physical, socioemotional, behavioral, educational, occupational, and financial impacts of primary dysmenorrhea. Limitations in functioning, mental health consequences, psychosocial effects, and impacts on interactions with others were some of the reported consequences. Women also reported facing interruptions in their everyday lives, poor performance in school and in the workplace, psychological discomfort, social isolation, embarrassment and shame, and the need for behavioral or environmental adjustments, among other effects on their quality of life. The review of these qualitative studies demonstrated that overall experiences with primary dysmenorrhea varied significantly by symptom severity and by the intersection of individual circumstances, life stage, and socioeconomic position. Therefore, inclusion of qualitative parameters in menstrual health evaluation could potentially aid in assessment and developing a personalized treatment plan. A combination of qualitative and standardized methods may offer a solution that leverages the strengths of both methodologies while acknowledging real-world clinical constraints.