Coping with premenstrual symptoms among women with irregular menstrual cycles: a qualitative study from Turkey

Abstract

This study was conducted to examine how women with irregular menstrual cycles experience premenstrual symptoms, the methods they use to cope with these symptoms, and how this process is reflected in daily life. The study was designed using a phenomenological design, one of the qualitative research methods. The sample consisted of 14 women of reproductive age who reported experiencing premenstrual symptoms and were selected through maximum variation sampling, a purposive sampling method. Data were collected through individual interviews using a semi-structured interview form developed by the researchers in line with the literature. The interviews lasted an average of 20–30 min and, with participants’ permission, were recorded and transcribed. The data were evaluated using thematic analysis. The participants’ mean age was 23.21 ± 2.54 years, and most were single. Five themes were identified through the analysis: multidimensional symptom experience in the premenstrual period, inadequate coping and loss of control, individual and mostly unstructured coping strategies, variable effectiveness of coping methods, and functional impairment in daily life. Participants reported mood changes, irritability, pain, breast tenderness, bloating, skin problems, changes in eating behavior, and social withdrawal. They used methods such as analgesics, hormonal medication, herbal tea, warm showers, heat application, and being alone; however, most of these methods provided only partial and temporary relief. Irregular menstrual cycles may reduce the predictability of premenstrual symptoms and create loss of control, psychosocial burden, and functional impairment among women. Individualized, evidence-based approaches that include psychosocial support are needed in PMS management.