Prevalence of premenstrual syndrome, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and dysmenorrhea in nursing students: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and evidence-based recommendations
Year: 2026
Type: review
Study designs: Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis
Abstract: Introduction: Menstrual disorders-including premenstrual syndrome (PMS), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and dysmenorrhea-are highly prevalent among women of reproductive age and are associated with impaired academic performance, psychological distress, and reduced social functioning. Nursing students are particularly vulnerable due to the combined demands of intensive academic schedules and clinical training, yet prevalence estimates and institutional responses remain inconsistent. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines and registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251109363). PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL Ultimate, and APA PsycINFO were searched for studies published between 2016 and 2025. Eligible studies reported prevalence or impact of PMS, PMDD, or dysmenorrhea exclusively in nursing students. The Joanna Briggs Institute checklist for prevalence studies was used for quality appraisal. Random-effects meta-analysis was applied to calculate pooled prevalence estimates, and thematic synthesis was used to evaluate academic, social, and psychosocial impacts, coping strategies, and interventions. Results: > 80%). Reported impacts included absenteeism, reduced concentration, diminished clinical performance, and impaired quality of life. Coping strategies were largely self-directed, including analgesics, rest, and dietary modifications, while few students accessed formal healthcare or institutional support. Only a limited number of studies evaluated structured interventions such as exercise, yoga, or nutritional supplementation. Conclusion: Menstrual disorders are highly prevalent among nursing students and carry significant academic, social, and psychological consequences. Nursing education programs should integrate routine screening, structured wellness initiatives, and evidence-based interventions to improve student wellbeing, reduce academic disruption, and strengthen workforce preparedness. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD420251109363, PROSPERO CRD420251109363.
Authors: Sabyasachi Maity, Bharathi S. Gadad, Hansapani Rodrigo, Seham Noorani, Aneesha Usman, Chloe Lark, Mona Attarpour, Ivy Mageto, Lucas Schwartz, Anna Maria Trachuk, Dena Yaareb, Fadi Huzien, Nikhilesh Anand, Narendra Nayak, Jaime E. Mendoza, Shreya Nauhria, Shreya Nauhria, Samal Nauhria, Samal Nauhria
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,077
OpenAlex ID: W7128713860