The relationship between menstrual issues and depressive and anxiety symptoms in Chinese adolescent female inpatients: a cross-sectional questionnaire-based investigation.

OBJECTIVE

Depression and anxiety have shown a rising prevalence among adolescent females and often coexist with a range of menstruation-related disturbances. This study aimed to examine the associations between menstrual pain, cycle irregularities, and other menstruation-related factors and symptoms of depression and anxiety in this population.

METHODS

Data from adolescent female inpatients visiting a psychiatry department were collected through a self-administered questionnaire survey.

RESULTS

The study included 389 participants, with a prevalence rate of 68.4% and 94.1% for dysmenorrhea and irregular menstrual cycles, respectively. This study revealed that a later age at menarche, dysmenorrhea, and irregular cycles were closely linked to an increased risk of depression and anxiety. Additionally, a higher body mass index (BMI) (> 28 kg/m²) was also associated with increased risk after adjustment. Notably, the peak prevalence of psychological issues, such as anxiety and depression, occurred 1-2 years after menarche (49.1%), rather than at the time of menarche itself. Furthermore, there was a positive correlation between age and age at menarche (r = 0.482, p < 0.001), indicating a trend toward earlier menarche.

CONCLUSION

This research enhances our understanding of the impact of menstrual health on the mental health of adolescent females and highlights the complex interaction between menstrual health and mental well-being.