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Abstract
Aim: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and severity of dysmenorrhea among female university students in Lahore, Pakistan, to identify associated menstrual, lifestyle, and psychosocial factors, and to describe self-medication and healthcare-seeking practices.
Settings and Design: A quantitative, cross-sectional study was conducted at Riphah International University, Gulberg campus, Lahore, between January and April 2026.
Methods and Materials: A structured, self-administered questionnaire adapted from a previously validated instrument was distributed to female undergraduate and postgraduate students across five academic disciplines. The tool was piloted among 30 students prior to use. Following exclusion of incomplete responses, 383 questionnaires were retained.
Statistical analysis used: Descriptive statistics, the chi-square test, and Pearson correlation, with internal consistency of the impact scale assessed by Cronbach's alpha; analysis was performed in SPSS version 26.
Results: All 383 (100%) participants reported experiencing menstrual pain, with 204 (53.3%) affected during every cycle; 94 (24.6%) reported severe or very severe pain. Dysmenorrhea significantly interfered with class concentration, academic deadlines, and social participation (all p<0.001). Self-medication was the predominant management approach (180, 47.0%, pharmacological), most often with paracetamol (160, 41.8%), guided by personal experience (153, 39.9%); only 86 (22.5%) had ever sought formal medical consultation. Living arrangement was the only variable significantly associated with the occurrence of dysmenorrhea (χ²=7.99, p=0.046). Conclusion: Dysmenorrhea was widespread among this population and carried a substantial academic and social burden, yet is managed predominantly through self-medication rather than professional care, highlighting the need for pharmacist-led counseling and university-based menstrual health education.