Effects of Menstrual Symptoms on Social Appearance Anxiety in University Students

Abstract

Aim: This study aims to determine the effect of menstrual symptoms on social appearance anxiety in university students. Material and Method: This study was planned as a descriptive and cross-sectional study, and the sample consisted of 264 female students studying at a foundation university in Istanbul that provides education in the field of health sciences. Data were collected using an online survey method with a personal information form prepared by the literature, the Social Appearance Anxiety Scale (SAAS), and the Menstruation Symptom Scale (MSS). Participants evaluated the SAAS in two forms specific to the menstrual and non-menstrual periods. Results: The mean age of the participants was 18.93±1.12, and the mean total MSS score was 71.47±18.28. It was determined that a significant portion of the participants (76.5%) reported that their social lives were affected during the menstrual period. The social appearance anxiety scores during the menstrual period (SAAS 34.56±17.14) were found to be higher than those during the non-menstrual period (SAAS 32.54±16.43) (p<0.05). A significant and positive correlation was found between MSS and SAAS scores during the menstrual period (r=0.321, p<0.05). Conclusion: This study determined that menstrual symptoms negatively affect social appearance anxiety in university students. Menstrual symptoms may increase social appearance anxiety, leading to adverse effects on social life and mental well-being, which healthcare professionals should consider. In this regard, it is recommended that healthcare professionals adopt a supportive approach toward women and provide guidance on this issue.

Keywords

• Menstruation
• menstrual cycle
• body image

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