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Journal of Innovation in Science, Engineering and Technology

Document Type

Original Study

Abstract

This research investigates the relationship between body weight and the severity and characteristics of primary dysmenorrhea among female undergraduates in Sri Lanka, using the WaLIDD Score as an evaluative tool. The study aims to assess the practicality of the WaLIDD Score in native settings, examining its correlation with pain intensity, pain location, and common medication patterns, while addressing gaps in previous research conducted in Sri Lanka. A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted among 389 female university students aged 19–27 years from both state and non-state universities in Sri Lanka, selected through stratified random sampling. Participants with chronic or menstrual diseases, or those unwilling to participate, were excluded. Data collection occurred from February to April 2023 using a pretested, semi-structured online questionnaire distributed via Google Forms. Statistical analysis of the collected data was performed using SPSS software version 27(SPSS 27). The findings reveal a high prevalence of dysmenorrhea among Sri Lankan female university students, with 98.2% of participants reporting menstrual pain, primarily moderate in intensity. Menstrual pain lasted 1–2 days for 71.5% of participants, while 4.6% reported pain for 5+ days. The lower abdomen was the most frequent pain site (82.5%). The average menarche age was 13 years, with 45.5% experiencing pain at onset. Dark red menstrual blood was most common (54.8%), and 60.2% reported peak blood flow on day two. Self-medication combined with medical management (57.8%) was the preferred pain management method. Correlation studies showed no significant relationship between weight, BMI, and pain severity. The study underscores the widespread impact of dysmenorrhea, highlighting the need for greater awareness, improved management strategies, and further research to address its effects on students' health, academic performance, and social well-being. The findings suggest that factors other than body weight may play a more prominent role in the severity and characteristics of dysmenorrhea.

Pages

24

Last Page

33

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