Prevalence and Correlation between Diet and Dysmenorrhea among High School and College Students in Saint Vincent and Grenadines

Ifure Monday; Precious Anthony; Esther Olunu; David Otohinoyi; Silas Abiodun; Akinyomade Owolabi; Blessing Mobolaji; Adegbenro Omotuyi John Fakoya

doi:10.3889/oamjms.2019.205

Authors

Ifure Monday School of Medicine, All Saints University, Roseau, Dominica
Precious Anthony School of Medicine, All Saints University, Roseau, Dominica
Esther Olunu School of Medicine, All Saints University, Roseau, Dominica
David Otohinoyi School of Medicine, All Saints University, Roseau, Dominica
Silas Abiodun School of Medicine, All Saints University, Roseau, Dominica
Akinyomade Owolabi Department of Biological Sciences, Landmark University, Omu-Aran, Kwara State, Nigeria
Blessing Mobolaji Bioresources Development Centre, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
Adegbenro Omotuyi John Fakoya University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3889/oamjms.2019.205

Keywords:

Dysmenorrhea, Menstrual pain, Sugar, Diet, Lifestyle

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Dysmenorrhea occurs as one of the symptoms of menstruation. While not necessarily a condition that plagues every woman, it is known to cause significant distress. Absenteeism from school and work as well as general discomfort are some of its adverse effects.

AIM: This study aims to investigate the effects of certain diets on the prevalence and severity of dysmenorrhea.

METHODS: Questionnaires was given to 478 women ranging from ages 1-55. The survey was centred around the age of menarche, presence and incidence of dysmenorrhea as well as how it is related to certain diets.

RESULTS: Majority of the participants (81.74%) belonged to the age groups of 11-15 and 16-20. 45.5% of the participants attested to dysmenorrhea at each menstrual cycle. statistical correlation between diet and dysmenorrhea was insignificant (p > 0.05). Consumption of caffeinated beverages correlated with dysmenorrhea (p < 0.05). Although not statistically significant (p > 0.05), the study reported dysmenorrhea in a large proportion of participants who consumed high quantities of sugars.

CONCLUSION: No relationship was established between diet and the incidence and severity of dysmenorrhea amongst the sample screened in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. However, it appears that diet high in sugars might benefit from further research.

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