Prevalence, Severity, Impact and Treatment of Dysmenorrhea in Aotearoa New Zealand: An Online Survey of 1245 New Zealand Women

The aim of this cross-sectional survey was to establish the prevalence, severity, impact, and treatment of dysmenorrhea in New Zealand across the reproductive lifespan. Dysmenorrhea was reported by 95% of respondents, 80% reporting dysmenorrhea without a known secondary cause, with prevalence higher among surveyed Māori. Moderate-severe dysmenorrhea was reported by 78%, impacting emotions, sleep, daily activities, and exercise for over half of affected individuals. Dysmenorrhea was commonly self-managed with over-the-counter analgesia and heat/warmth application. The data suggests that the prevalence of dysmenorrhea in New Zealand is high, with normalization of severe menstrual pain and barriers to healthcare and treatment options.