Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part E (2025)

Background: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a common gynecological condition among adolescents, often accompanied by psychological symptoms such as anxiety and depression. Anthropometric indices and physical activity levels may influence menstrual health, yet their associations with PMS remain unclear.
Objective: To determine the prevalence of PMS, anxiety, and depression, and to assess the impact of anthropometric indices and physical activity among menstruating adolescents of 11-17years.  
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 704 menstruating adolescents recruited from schools and communities in Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala. Data collection tools included the Premenstrual Syndrome Questionnaire, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and Physical Activity Questionnaires (PAQ-A & PAQ-C). Anthropometric indices measured were body mass index (BMI), waist-hip ratio (WHR), and waist-height ratio (WHtR). Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test, with significance set at p ≤ 0.05. 
Results: PMS prevalence was 89.35%, with mild (37.4%), moderate (25.1%), severe (19.3%), and very severe (7.5%) categories. Anxiety was reported by 98.72% of participants and depression by 75%. A significant association was observed between PMS and depression (p = 0.030), but not with anxiety (p = 0.064), anthropometric indices (BMI, WHR, WHtR), or physical activity (p > 0.05). Most participants (88.22%) had low to mild physical activity levels. 
Conclusion: PMS, anxiety, and depression are highly prevalent among menstruating adolescents, with depression showing a significant correlation with PMS. Anthropometric indices and physical activity did not significantly impact PMS. The findings underscore the need for early screening and psychosocial support programs in adolescent health and physical education settings.