The Prevalence of Dysmenorrhea and Self Care Management of Dysmenorrhea among resident Makerere University female students in Kampala Uganda

Abstract

Dysmenorrhea is the cramp-like dull throbbing pain in the abdomen that occurs in females of reproductive age before and/or during menstruation. Globally, 45%-95% of women are affected by dysmenorrhea that leads to absences at school, decreased activity, undesired quality of sleep and low life quality The Objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of dysmenorrhea and self care management practices among female students of Makerere University Kampala Uganda. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Africa, Complex and Mary Stuart halls of residence in Makerere University. The data was collected using self-administered questionnaires and interviews. The prevalence of dysmenorrhea was 85.9% (n = 275).