Self-Medication Practices for Dysmenorrhea among Health Science Students in Karnali, Nepal

Abstract

Background and objectives: Dysmenorrhoea, characterized by painful menstrual cramps occurring before or during menstruation, is one of the most common gynecological complaints among adolescent and young adult females. Despite having access to health-related knowledge, many health-science students rely on self-medication to manage menstrual pain. This study aimed to determine the self-medication practices in dysmenorrhoea and its impact on academic and daily life among students of Karnali Academy of Health Sciences (KAHS), Nepal.

Material and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among female undergraduate health science students at KAHS. Data were collected using a pretested semi-structured questionnaire Pain intensity was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Open-ended responses were analyzed thematically to explore coping mechanisms and expectations regarding menstrual health support. Data were entered and analyzed using Microsoft Excel.

Results: Dysmenorrhoea was reported by 108 (89.3%) students. Lower abdominal cramps (83.5%) were the most common symptom, followed by fatigue (67.0%), dizziness (41.3%), nausea (24.8%), headache (12.4%), and diarrhea (7.4%). Self-medication was practiced by 45 (37.2%) respondents with dysmenorrhoea. Among them, 44.4% used medication, while only 13.3% obtained through physician prescriptions. Most students (77.8%) acquired medications over the counter. Mefenamic acid (75.6%) was the most commonly used drug, followed by paracetamol (20.0%). Dysmenorrhoea negatively affected daily functioning and academic performance, with 39% reporting extreme difficulty performing household activities and 43% experiencing difficulty concentrating during lectures. Qualitative findings revealed the use of heat therapy, herbal beverages, yoga, walking, music, and other diversion techniques as coping strategies. Participants also highlighted the need for emotional support, rest facilities, sanitary pad availability, and a more supportive institutional environment.

Conclusion: Dysmenorrhoea is highly prevalent among female undergraduate health science students at KAHS and has a substantial impact on their academic and daily activities. More than one-third of affected students practice self-medication, predominantly using over-the-counter analgesics.