Dysmenorrhoea, menstrual attitude and GP consultation

Abstract

This study examined the prevalence, source and type of treatment for dysmenorrhoea, and menstrual attitudes. It was expected that negative menstrual attitudes would be related to GP consultation in dysmenorrhoeic subjects. Seventy undergraduate nursing students completed the study. The prevalence of dysmenorrhoea was high, but was not associated with sociodemographic, menstrual cycle and health-related variables. The prevailing menstrual attitude was 'bothersome' and 'anticipation and prediction', but this was not related to GP consultation. Treatment for dysmenorrhoea was predominantly self or 'lay', for which a high rate of satisfaction was observed. Less than one-third of dysmenorrhoeic subjects consulted their GP for treatment, and two-thirds of those who did were dissatisfied with the treatment offered.