1Research Scholar, Symbiosis School of Biological Sciences, Symbiosis International (Deemed University), Pune
2Assistant Professor, MGM School of Biomedical Sciences, MGMIHS, Navi Mumbai
3Consultant, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, KEM Hospital and Research Centre, Pune
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a cyclic occurrence of symptoms which affects many women of childbearing age. Several biological and lifestyle related factors have shown association with occurrence and severity of PMS. Objective of this pilot study is to explore the occurrence of PMS among
young women with specific focus on body composition and nutrient intake.
In this pilot study a total of 62 women participated. Their information on menstruation, and nutrient intake was collected using structured questionnaire. Moose's questionnaire were used for the diagnosis and categorization of PMS. Body composition analysis was done by measuring 4-site skinfold thickness and bioelectrical impedance analysis.
About 87% women were found to have PMS. Out of these 46.8% had mild PMS, 37.1% had moderate and 16.1% had strong PMS. The most common symptoms reported were anxiety and irritability. Though mean basic metabolic index (BMI) was within normal range (22.27±5.08Kg/m2), the mean body fat percentage was 32.9±5.63% which is above the normal cut-off for young women. Body fat percentage, total body water, muscle mass and waist circumference correlated significantly with incidence and severity of PMS. Intake of energy, protein and micronutrients (calcium, iron, vitamin B12 and C) were significantly low than recommended dietary allowance (RDA) in the studied group of women. To the contrary intake of fat was significantly higher.
It was observed that there is an inter-alia relation between parameters of body composition and nutrient intake with PMS among young women.
Premenstrual Syndrome, Body Composition, Nutrient Intake
