Premenstrual syndrome as reported by Brazilian women
Received 16 June 2009; received in revised form 8 July 2009; accepted 11 September 2009. published online 05 November 2009.
Abstract
Objective
To describe the perspectives and attitudes of Brazilian women toward premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
Methods
An exploratory study was conducted in 6 major cities: 1 in each geographic region of Brazil and 1 in the Federal District. Participants were women aged 18–40years who consulted at public healthcare services or who were members of staff/faculty at university.
Results
Of 1053 women, 96.1% had heard of PMS; 65.4% considered that all or almost all women experienced the condition; 87.5% stated that symptoms occurred prior to menstruation; and 60.3% thought that they had PMS at the time of the interview. The emotional and physical symptoms most frequently mentioned were nervousness/anxiety (76.4%); mood swings/crying (55.7%); pain, swelling, and tenderness of the breasts (37.3%); and cramps (45.4%).
Conclusion
Premenstrual syndrome was reported by a large number of Brazilian women; actions need to be taken to provide more effectively the specific information required by both lay people and healthcare professionals.
ABSTRACT