When cycles influence career and connections: How pre-menstrual symptoms affect the work and social life of young women in Pune

Background: Pre-menstrual symptoms (PMSs) are cyclic phenomena that affect a significant proportion of menstruating women. It comprises physical, emotional, and behavioural symptoms that occur during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Despite its widespread occurrence, PMS remains underdiagnosed, particularly in developing nations. The cyclical nature of PMSs often diminishes a woman’s quality of life, leading to noticeable disruptions in her routine, social, and occupational activities. Aim: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and severity of PMS among females aged 15–35 years in Pune using the Pre-menstrual Symptoms Screening Tool (PSST) and to explore its association with work and social impairment, as well as other lifestyle factors such as stress, diet, sleep, and physical activity. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among women ( n = 306) aged 15–35 years, who completed the PSST along with a structured Google questionnaire assessing PMS/pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) symptoms, demographic characteristics, lifestyle factors (stress, sleep, diet, caffeine consumption, physical activity, etc.), and work/social functioning. Statistical analyses, such as Pearson’s Chi-square tests, were performed to identify significant associations between PMS severity and work/social impairment. Results: The results indicated that 51.3% ( n = 157) of the participants experienced mild-to-moderate PMS, while 7.5% ( n = 23) met the criteria for PMDD. The most frequent symptoms in women affected by PMS were fatigue (98.1%), irritability/anger (96.2%), and decreased interest in home, work, or social activities. PMS severity was significantly associated with work impairment (χ 2 = 33, df = 2, P < 0.001) and social-life interference (χ 2 = 14.41, df = 2, P < 0.0007). Conclusion: This study highlights the high prevalence of PMS and its strong association with lifestyle factors that can be modified. Increased awareness, early screening using the PSST, and lifestyle modifications, such as stress management and improved sleep hygiene, may help in better PMS management and improve women’s quality of life.