Perimenstrual Syndrome: Nursing Diagnosis Among Taiwanese Nursing Students

PURPOSE. To determine the frequency and distribution of various perimenstrual symptoms experienced by Taiwanese nursing students. METHODS. A descriptive "management of menstrual cramps survey" was utilized to collect information from 2,758 female nursing students in southern Taiwan. FINDINGS. Of the participants, the most frequently reported perimenstrual symptom was a combination of four symptom categories, including mood change, pain, gastrointestinal disturbance, and functional ability decline. CONCLUSIONS. A potentially new nursing diagnosis of perimenstrual syndrome including four symptom categories may be established. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. The results are important for the education of healthcare professionals and the public. Understanding the interaction among perimenstrual symptoms may help guide nursing professionals in women's health care.