The impact of stress on menstrual cycle changes around examination time among medical college students: a multicentric study

ABSTRACT

Objective. Stress was linked to many menstrual cycle (MC) abnormalities, especially during stressful periods like exams. Medical students are known to experience higher stress levels compared to other disciplines. This study primarily examined the impact of stress on MC parameters. Secondly, to verify predictors linked to stress and successful stress-coping strategies among students to mitigate stress-related MC changes.
Materials and Methods. A cross-sectional study enrolled medical college students via an online survey by Google Forms. Three data sets were collected: demographics, menstrual history, and socio-behavioral factors. (361) Participants were grouped into 2: Group A, who experienced no change in MC, and Group B who did. Chi-square and odds ratio (OR) compared groups.
Results. 87.7% of participants were 22- 24 years old. MC history and menstrual changes at the exam were all statistically significant across groups. In contrast, sleep and diet were not. Stressful life events and asking for medical advice were statistically significant. Reduced blood loss had highest odds for exams-related stress; OR:10.85; 95%CI 5.41 to 21.75, followed by reduced MC length; OR:9.91;95%CI 4.91 to 4.29. Most reliable coping strategy was asking for medical advice; OR:2.68;95%CI 1.68 to 4.29.
Conclusions. Exam-related stress was more evident in students with abnormal menstrual history manifested as dysmenorrhea and reduced cycle length. Most reliable stress predictors were reduced blood loss and cycle length. Identifying students most likely to suffer exam-related stress and the most effective stress-coping strategies are vital to support female students and help them achieve academic success.