Multidimensional Insights into the Role of Stress, Nutrition and Physical Activity in Modulating Dysmenorrheal Pathophysiology

Abstract

Background: Dysmenorrhea, a common gynaecological condition, affects the quality of life among young women, with its severity influenced by various lifestyle factors such as stress, diet, physical activity, and hydration.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study involving 608 female students from various academic disciplines was carried out to examine lifestyle factors associated with dysmenorrhea. Validated questionnaires were used to evaluate dietary habits, physical activity, and stress levels. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests, were employed to identify significant correlations between these variables and the severity of dysmenorrhea.

Results: The study found that pain was highest in students aged 18-22 years (53.45%, p = 0.409), while stress worsened symptoms in 65.46% (p = 0.041), mainly due to exams (18.09%) and personal issues (30.10%). Exercise reduced pain (p = 0.039), especially cardio (21.38%) and flexibility training (18.09%), with short workouts (<15 min) providing the most relief (46.05%, p = 0.035). Whole grains (46.76%, p = 0.043), dairy (56.87%, p = 0.041), and hydration (>2L/day, 23.03%, p = 0.038) helped alleviate symptoms, while high sugar intake worsened pain (39.47%, p = 0.037).

Conclusion: The research has provided compelling evidence on the role of lifestyle factors in dysmenorrhoea severity, particularly stressing diet, hydration, and physical activity. Interventions such as stress management, sufficient water intake, and regular moderate exercise may help alleviate symptoms. Incorporating physical activity, balanced nutrition, and effective stress-reduction strategies could serve as practical approaches for managing dysmenorrhea among college students.