Association Between Body Mass Index and Menstrual Pain: A Cross-Sectional Study Among Female Students

Ketut Teni Arya Putri; Anak Agung Gede Angga Puspa Negara; Ni Komang Ayu Juni Antari; Ni Wayan Tianing

doi:10.24843/mifi.000000632

Authors

Ketut Teni Arya Putri Undergraduate and Professional Physiotherapy Program, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia Author
Anak Agung Gede Angga Puspa Negara Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University Author
Ni Komang Ayu Juni Antari Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University Author
Ni Wayan Tianing Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24843/mifi.000000632

Keywords:

body mass index, dysmenorrhea, female students, menstrual pain, cross-sectional study

Abstract

Introduction: Menstrual pain or dysmenorrhea is a common complaint among female students and may be influenced by various factors, including body mass index (BMI). Understanding this relationship is essential for early management and prevention strategies.

Methods: This analytical observational study with a cross-sectional design involved 60 female students selected through purposive sampling. BMI was calculated based on weight and height measurements, while dysmenorrhea intensity was assessed using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS).

Results: Spearman’s rho correlation analysis showed a significant positive relationship between BMI and menstrual pain intensity (p = 0.003, r = 0.377), indicating that higher BMI is associated with greater pain levels.

Conclusion: There is a significant, albeit low, positive correlation between BMI and dysmenorrhea intensity in female university students. These findings suggest the importance of maintaining a healthy BMI to potentially reduce menstrual pain severity.